Cocktail Bar
Unclaimed profileNicky Blaine's Cocktail Lounge
Indianapolis, IN · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Nicky Blaine's Cocktail Lounge delivers a broad cocktail program with classic and signature martinis, plus a serious spirits list. The menu spans dessert martinis, craft beer from Indiana breweries, a dedicated mocktail list, and premium wines. Customers praise the cocktail variety and quality, though service can be uneven. A retro bar with modern twists, it suits both cocktail purists and those seeking something unique.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Dean Martini, a straightforward Bombay gin and dry vermouth pour, or the Citizen Kane with Hendrick's and a bold garnish. For a whiskey-driven choice, the Black Manhattan with Maker's Mark and black walnut bitters is a solid pick. Nonalcoholic options like the Juniper Berry Fizz offer complexity without the alcohol.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts exploring a deep martini list and whiskey drinkers seeking premium pours will find much to appreciate. The mocktail menu and nonalcoholic substitutions make it welcoming for designated drivers or those abstaining. Cigar aficionados may also enjoy the complementary cigar program.
- When should I go?
- Evenings suit the lounge's retro vibe, especially for a pre-dinner cocktail or a late-night pour. The extensive drink menu and private event capacity suggest it accommodates groups and special occasions.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Martinis range from $13 to $26, with specialty options like the Lil' Smoke at $15. Wines by glass run $14 to $22, bottles up to $450 for Dom Perignon. Scotch pours reach $100, and beers are $7 to $10.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The lounge combines an extensive martini menu with a broad spirit selection, including rare scotch and bourbon. Its dedicated mocktail menu with creative options like the NA-groni sets it apart. The retro bar concept, dubbed Indy's 'Original Retro Bar,' adds a distinct character.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
Extensive martini menu with classic and signature options, including dessert martinis. Signature cocktails like Nicky's Sazerac and Black Manhattan show range.
Menu strengths
- — Unique offerings like dessert martinis and signature coffees.
Standout selections
- — Dean Martini: Bombay gin, dry vermouth, single olive.
- — Citizen Kane: Hendrick's cucumber-infused gin with garlic, jalapeno olives, rosemary.
- — Nicky's Sazerac: Elijah Craig rye, Peychaud's bitters, absinthe rinse.
Pricing: Martinis range from $13 to $26; specialty martinis like Lil' Smoke are $15.
Wine
Diverse wine list with regions from California, Argentina, Italy, and France. Includes premium bottles like Silver Oak Cabernet and Dom Perignon.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse selection from multiple regions.; Premium bottle offerings for special occasions.
Standout selections
- — Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet: $250 per bottle.
- — Dom Perignon Brut: $450 per bottle.
Pricing: Wines by glass $14-$22; bottles $50-$450.
Beer
Bottled beer includes local Indiana breweries like 3 Floyds and Rhinegeist, plus domestic and imported options. Offers non-alcoholic Heineken 0.0.
Menu strengths
- — Includes local craft beer options.; Offers non-alcoholic beer choice.
Standout selections
- — 3 Floyds Brewing: rotating selection.; Edmund Fitzgerald Porter: $7.50.
Pricing: Beer prices range from $7 to $10.
Nonalcoholic
Dedicated mocktail menu with creative options like Juniper Berry Fizz and NA-groni. Non-alcoholic spirits can be substituted in any cocktail, showing commitment to inclusivity.
Menu strengths
- — Dedicated mocktail menu with creative options.; Non-alcoholic substitutions available for any cocktail.
Standout selections
- — Juniper Berry Fizz: Ritual non-alcoholic gin, blackberry, lemon.
- — NA-groni: Ritual non-alcoholic gin and aperitif.
Spirits
Large selection of scotch including single malt and Islay, plus premium bourbon and rye. Cigar menu complements the spirits list.
Menu strengths
- — Large selection of scotch and bourbon.; Cigar program complements spirits selection.
Standout selections
- — Macallan 18 Year: $100 per pour.
- — Whistlepig 10 Yr Rye: premium rye.
Pricing: Scotch pours range from $16 to $100; bourbon and rye are two-ounce pours.
How it sits with the food
While not a food-focused venue, the cocktail list offers options that could pair with bar snacks. The Old Fashioned's muddled orange and Luxardo cherry might complement smoked or grilled fare, and the Black Manhattan's walnut bitters could stand up to rich appetizers.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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