Bring cash because they are cash only! This is a fabulous old Indiana dinner just west of downtown with a 1950's vibe. Vintage glass block walls, original Formica topped counters and menu boards over the bar carried me back in time. The place is authentic. The staff greeted us when we entered and reminded us they are cash only! The red vinyl chairs beckoned us to sit anywhere. We sat at the bar. Shelly, our server was friendly and attentive. I had the Fish Sandwich Special ($14) that came with fries and slaw. The breaded fish was hot! I loved the finely shredded lettuce and thin sliced onion and tomato. The sandwich was hard to eat because it was so big. The coleslaw was creamy and sweet. The fries were good. My husband had the Pork Tenderloin ($9) with fries. He put the tenderloin up on his "top five" list, which is quite an honor. The tenderloin was massive, moist with a perfectly seasoned breading. The brioche style roll was a nice touch. The small restrooms are vintage 1950, but clean. The parking lot is a bit uneven. The place fills up quickly, so get there early. And bring cash! read more

See all

I get why they do what they do but honestly it's super lame. Cash only, 2 kinds of beer on top bud and bud lite, and NO ONE UNDER 21. I'm from out of town so this was a one time stop even though I'm in Indy often. Fries average, service average, smash burger decent but is not sauced well so pretty dry. Ambience old and dusty but prices about right for what you get. read more

Workingman's Friend - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

See all

I'll start by saying the cheeseburger was impeccable! I ordered a double, based on the servers suggestion, and it did not disappoint. The patties were perfectly crispy and topped with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and mayo. I do typically prefer some sort of burger sauce but still appreciated the taste of these burgers. My family also ordered chili, which they liked. And the sweet tea was amazing per my mother. The only negatives about this place are the tiny bathroom stall and the location. I will be back though! read more

Workingman's Friend - Double cheeseburger - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

See all

A cash only establishment, Workingman's Friend lives up to its name with insanely reasonable prices, an electric atmosphere, and just an overall fun experience. We sat at the bar and our server was attentive all the while handling all alcohol orders (the beer sizes are absolutely insane). We both got burgers and it was so good. Just a classic smashed patty with no gimmick or over the top presentation. For $27.50 we got 2 burgers (one being a double, 2 fries, and 2 sodas. Right now, for the food and the experience, this price was hard to beat. Can't recommend this place enough. read more

Workingman's Friend - Double burger and fries - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

See all

Not fine dining but you won't be disappointed. What they might lack in a modern burger experience, they more than make up for in character and great food. Limited menu means everything is consistent and delicious. If you order beer, you'll appreciate the generous pour in their huge goblets. This is a "if you know, you know" kind of place & you'll see that by the diversity of the patrons. read more

Workingman's Friend - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I grew up in southern Indiana and these tavern style dining rooms have my heart. I've waited TOO LONG to get here. I hope I don't wait too long to get back. I've got my eye on that tenderloin. Firstly, cash only. Come prepared. Secondly, they're open 11-3, Tuesday through Saturday. Last orders are taken at 2:45 PM. We arrived just before opening and there was a short line. I had a double hamburger and onion rings. I didn't expect the center bun, but I wasn't mad about it. Crisp, flavorful smash burger made just the way I asked. Perfection. If they don't hand batter those onion rings, they sure do have a good supplier. The Big John is a ham and Swiss with a signature, crispy "cheese skirt" around the outside. Comes with chips and slaw. Owner is present and delightful. Servers are attentive and cheerful. Sweet tea is sweet, served in mason jars. read more

See all

Please be aware this is considered a tavern and only those age 21 and older are allowed to enter regardless of whether you're ordering alcohol or not. We sent our teenage boys back out to the car and enjoyed a delicious adult only lunch and ordered our boys food to-go. walking in this restaurant feels like a step back in time from the old bar counter and menu, to the cigarette vending machine and the small glass cups you'll pour your canned soda in. Food was delicious! We especially enjoyed the onion rings and double cheeseburger. read more

See all

If you live in Indy, you've got to try Workingman's Friend at least once, and I'd recommend reading the IndyStar article on its history to truly appreciate this vintage lunch diner. Great setting. Pros: - Best slaw in Indy - Tasty smash burgers with fresh produce - Beers served in a chalice! That rocks. Cons: - Get ready to wait- usually packed with noticeable ticket times. - Soda comes by the can. read more

See all

How this place has less than 5 stars is beyond me. I feel sorry for anyone who has had less than a 5 star experience. The burgers are excellent. The ambiance is timeless. Cash only. Bring that and an appetite. I am a burger and food lover. I have traveled around the states and Workingmans friend is up there for just classic delicious burger. Took my buddy who was visiting from Colorado. Then we went up to Chicago and had a goats tavern burger. He agreed..Workingmans friend gets the W. If it wouldn't kill me I'd eat this burger every other day. read more

Workingman's Friend - Double cheeseburger. - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

See all

Arrived, the parking does not accommodate a place with such good food! The parking is along the street and in a gravel lot that isn't the smoothest. The food is greasy and delicious. The waitress was very nice and quick and she was super busy. It's just a bar with a large open dining room. Super casual. Cash only so you need to go to the ATM. Or at least I had to. I definitely recommend this place for a juicy burger. read more

Workingman's Friend - Cheeseburger and tots - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I had lunch today at the Workingman's Friend with some old friends. Every time I go here, I get the double deluxe cheeseburger and I'm always well satisfied ! Today two of my friends encouraged me to try their breaded pork tenderloin sandwich. While it was hard to choose this over the best burger in Indy, I'm glad I did. I had what might be the best breaded pork tenderloin in town. This was clearly a hand pounded pork loin breaded and seasoned to perfection. Now I have a dilemma - which sandwich do I order on my next visit ‍. read more

Workingman's Friend - Hand breaded pork tenderloin sandwich - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

We had heard about this place forever and thought we should try it. Which we did. When you walk in it feels like you are back in the 50's. Black and white square floor. Woolworth kind of stools and kitchen table chairs Everyone was really friendly. Since they take cash only, the waitress causally reminded us. No problem, we had heard. The speciality is smash burgers Single, double, triple. We got doubles with cheese. Beer is on tap, bud and a couple others. Served in a fishbowl and ice cold. I have eaten at Steak 'n Shake and thought their burgers were good. These burgers had a really crispy finish, some special flavor and would be my choice over any other smash burger. Their hours are limited. I believe 11:00 until 3:00. They are closed Sunday and Monday. Would I go again? You betcha read more

Today was my first visit to Workingman's Friend, but it will not be my last! We arrived around 12:50 on a Tuesday afternoon. Happily bar seating was available as the parking lot was pretty full. We had reviewed the menu before arriving as the menu is a menu board like you'd find at a concession stand which isn't visible from all seats. I'd been told the servers were a little rude (Ed Debevic). This was completely untrue as our server was patient with us. The entire experience was delightful- we'll definitely be back! read more

Workingman's Friend - Double cheeseburger and tots - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

See all

You're not going to find a better smash burger for than money than here. Onion rings were on point. Food hot. Beer cold. Service was awesome. Bring cash. Similarly to Redamak's in New Buffalo, they smartly don't accept credit or debit cards. read more

Workingman's Friend - Double Cheeseburger and onion rings - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Just moved to the area a couple of months back. Heard some commotion around this place. Had to come try for myself and it was everything expected and more. A walk back in time to an old diner feel. A place where you feel like all of the locals gather and enjoy a meal. This burger was a top burger I've had in my life. I've had a ton of burgers in my time but this experience is up there at the top. Parking lot gets full and people park on the street. Get here early. Best burger in Indiana read more

Workingman's Friend - Double Cheeseburger with fries - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

See all

I rarely give out 5 stars but the double cheeseburger is top 3 burgers I have ever had! It's is a smash burger style with perfectly cooked thin crispy patty's and fresh tasting toppings. This is an Indianapolis staple that has been on my list for a while and I regret it took me so long to make it here. The staff was friendly and informative, the ambiance is that of an old school diner, the prices are unbelievable, and the menu is the perfect size with variety. I can't wait to go back soon to try the chili and the tenderloin, and get the burger again. Be sure to bring cash with you as this is a cash only establishment. read more

See all

This is the Indy burger OG. Total dive bar/restaurant that feels like slipping on your favorite pair of broken-in jeans with the holes in the knees. The decor is decidedly unfancy and the menu's not large, but it's got everything you need. Fish sandwiches, chili, fries, onion rings.... yeah, yeah. What you want here is a burger. A good old-fashioned, smashed-thin, crispy-edged cheeseburger with everything on it. Period. They're only open for lunch, and it's cash only and 21+ only. If you don't have to go back to work, order up a goblet of beer to wash it all down. I got there at 11:45 a.m. on a Friday, and there were a few open tables. I grabbed a spot at the bar with no waiting, just know that you can't save seats once it starts filling up! read more

Workingman's Friend - Cheeseburger - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

What an amazing place! The ambience and decor take you back to the 50's, the service is so friendly, owner Becky is a jewel-- and the hamburgers! I had mine with cheese and cooked onions, didn't have to add mustard or ketchup it was so perfect as it was. Don't miss this place, it's cash only so plan on that, but go read more

I feel like I can finally call myself a local after getting lunch at Workingman's Friend! The burgers live up to the hype - if you want a thick burger, this isn't for you, but if you want an amazing smash burger with crispy edges, WF is calling. Everything is a la carte and CASH ONLY. Old school bar/diner vibe with handwritten tickets and bustling servers. Prices have remained incredibly reasonable despite increasing food costs. The chili also seems to be popular (as there were folks eating it despite 90 degree weather), can't wait to come back and try it when it's a bit cooler outside! read more

Workingman's Friend - Double Cheeseburger - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

See all

I had forgotten how good a hamburger could taste. Crispy, juicy, and full of flavor!

INDIANA'S FINEST! a long-time staple of Indy and historic to the area.. perfect for a hangover meal. perfect for a work lunch with the guys. Old-timey looking like it did back in the day: some good things shouldn't be changed. Classic diner menu and always have the Indiana tenderloin or an awesome grilled cheese available. AWESOME grill - the reason the burgers are so amazing is because of this age-old grill they're being cooked on, I swear by it! Service could be improved but tbh the busy atmosphere and the hubbub all around make it a vibe. Come here to see what Indiana is all about! Hope this place never closes. read more

See all

Classic, old-school feel and taste. This spot came up on several lists of places one must visit in the city. They are known for their smashburgers - always fresh, never frozen. It's not at all far from Downtown, maybe 10-15 minutes away. The ambience was a large, very open, very clean, no fuss diner. Simple menu, straightforward reasonable (leaning towards cheap) prices. It seems most patrons order the double cheeseburger. I opted for a single once I saw the double land on someone else's table as I went to order. The single and fries filled me up good. The burger was hot, fresh off the griddle. The crunchy crust I expected from a smashburger was not there but that was fine with me. The burger came on a standard bun and was topped with a slice of american cheese, lettuce and tomato (I didn't want raw onion), mayo, and dill pickles provided on the side. Fries were hot and crunchy. It was a satisfying, homemade tasting burger. Only recommendation would be seasoning the meat. I did not detect even a hint of salt. Some salt, pepper and a lil onion powder would take this burger to the next level and make it a burger that can'tve forgotten. And I would ask for grilled onions if I found myself here again. The service was so friendly. I read many have to wait for a table but I walked in and sat right away at 1pm on a Tuesday. All told, I was in and out (no pun intended) the door in under 30mins. For the experience of nostalgia and the price, I definitely recommend a visit. read more

See all

Went with a friend for lunch. Inside atmosphere was old-timey. We shared cheese sticks then each got a double burger. I got plain. We were both very satisfied with the meal! The burgers were smashed to perfection and the fries were solid. The cheese sticks were uniquely delicious and had very good ranch. Food took a bit longer to come out that normal, but only because they were so busy! Waitress was nice and straight to the point Would come back again! read more

Workingman's Friend - cheese Sticks - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

See all

Delicious!! Prices were reasonable and staff was friendly!!! Did the double with fries , burger was crispy on the edges and bacon was crispy!! Cash only! read more

Workingman's Friend - Specials - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

See all

Not opened very much. 2:45pm last order in. They pack them in for lunch. Looks like most get the double smash for $8.25. Really wanted to try their onion rings, but knew the burger would fill me up. I went with just lettuce and tartar sauce. It was epic and delicious. Friendly staff and a well used dining room and bar. They keep it all clean though. read more

See all

My friend was in town and wanted to try this place out. The hours are mostly lunch, but open Friday nights. Nothing fancy about the restaurant, but the waitress was very friendly. We both ordered the double cheeseburger. I felt there was way too much bread per meat ratio. The waitress did say they ran out of their regular buns so these were a bit bigger. I think in the future I would ask for no middle bun. The patty itself had a great taste. Just needed a lot of napkins. The onion rings were very good as well. read more

Workingman's Friend - Double cheeseburger - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

The best burger in Indy! The wait was closer to an hour to receive food but mind you we visited on a Saturday around Noon and they close at 2p. So shame on us! Get there early around 11a, make sure you bring cash because it's cash only and be prepared to enjoy a good burger, with friendly staff and patrons. I love the nostalgia of the place, tons of history. Parking is random but you will figure it out, there is enough to accommodate on the street as well. read more

See all

Whole package. An Indianapolis staple stop for lunch. Great vibes food and keeping it intimate lives up to the hype.

No frills place to get a GREAT cheeseburger! It's cash only and off the beaten path but a great stop to prioritize to see local Indianapolis. My burger was cooked well, huge, and delicious! read more

Workingman's Friend - Cheeseburger special with sweet tea (10/10) - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Adding my endorsement to the long list of reviews that this is the 'best burger in Indy''. I for one LOVE a classic thin smash burger, no frills. The crispy edges were out of this world. I got a double with everything and added mustard and ketchup. Next time, I'll ask for it without the center bun, but still loved it and ate the whole thing in record time. I went with my mom on a Friday afternoon around 12, peak lunch hour. There were tons of cars outside, but surprisingly a few open tables. We sat at the bar so as to mot take up an entire table and our server was wonderful. She asked if we'd been there before and when we said 'no', she replied - 'we're cash only and we're known for our cheeseburgers'. Super straightforward, good food, and it was nice to see the place filled with so many people enjoying their lunches. read more

Workingman's Friend - Double cheeseburger and fries - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I just love this place. It's old school and good. I have never had the chili here and decided to give the 5 alarm a try. First of all I ordered a bowl because the cup looks small. I did not even come close to finishing the bowl! A cup would have been plenty. It was very good, but if I'm going to recommend something it's the burger! I did try the Cole slaw, I know it's a strange thing to go goo goo over but it was delicious! I also have to shout out for the service. It's such a pleasure dining here due to the staff. I always sit at the bar and the server is so friendly and kind. read more

Workingman's Friend - Cole slaw... best I have ever had! - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

See all

one of the better smash burgers I've had in a long time! Our server was super friendly and gave us a quick lay of the land since we hadn't previously visited. Wife and I each enjoyed a smash burger and a beverage. The food was certainly fresh cooked, came out in a reasonable time despite it being very busy. The burgers had a ton of flavor, cooked to perfection... the onion rings and tater tots were also delicious, i'll be back! read more

The stars aligned and I was finally able to visit Workingman's Friend. It's open odd hours (11 to 2:45 most days, closed Sunday and Monday), it's cash only, and kids are not allowed. I'm never in this area of Indy at those times, I never carry cash, and I have children. So although I've lived in Indy almost eight years, this is the first time I've been. We were told by many and even by the servers themselves that Workingman's Friend is known for their burgers. So, of course, we had to get a burger. I got a cheeseburger with everything on it (raw onions, lettuce, tomato and pickles), but they also sell a double cheeseburger that has a bun in the middle, kind of like a Big Mac. The burger was good, but what overshadows that experience in my mind is this: Why did no one tell me that if I visited Workingman's Friend, I would leave smelling like Workingman's Friend all day? Despite washing my hands three times, my fingers smelled like burger. My clothes and hair smelled like diner grease. Even my car smelled like Workingman's Friend. When I picked up my youngest child from school, he asked, "Why did you eat in the car? It stinks in here." And I said, "I didn't! This is just from me sitting in the car after eating inside a restaurant!" I felt like I was reliving the Seinfeld episode where Jerry couldn't get the B.O. smell out of his car and off his body. So I guess the question is: Is the lingering smell of Workingman's Friend worth it in order to eat their food again? My answer is: Meh, not really. Indy has an abundance of great burger places, and this is one of them, but to be honest, it's not the best and not worth the odor and the hassle, for me. It's also not particularly cheap, considering their target demographic, which is apparently working-class people. And our service was incredibly slow: It took more than an hour, from start to finish, to order and eat two burgers and fries. This working woman needed to get back to work, dang it. I don't have time to spend 70 minutes at a diner for a burger lunch. I could see if I was ordering something unusual that took a lot of time, but I ordered two burgers. If I come back, I would probably try to sit at the bar, because it seemed like the people at the bar got their food quicker: Two different parties came in after us and got served their food before we, who were sitting at a table, did. I'll end with this: the tater tots are great and cooked perfectly. Crispy and golden, yet soft inside. I could eat a basket of those by themselves. read more

If you want the short version: Hard pass. I've heard about Workingman's Friend for years and finally stopped in since I get my haircut down the street. I walked in around 11:55 a.m. and sat at the bar. It was busy, but the bartender greeted me right away and let me know it's cash-only. I ordered sweet tea, a double cheeseburger, zucchini with ranch, fries, and a bowl of chili. Here's how it went: * Zucchini showed up at 12:33 p.m.--38 minutes later--and tasted like fish. Turns out they fry everything in the same oil. When I mentioned it, the waitress shrugged and didn't offer to swap it or take it off the bill. * Chili came at 12:36 p.m. Watery and bland. * Burger and fries arrived at 12:40 p.m. Burger was flat in flavor, fries were fine but forgettable. It's hard to believe this place is called Workingman's Friend--most people only get an hour for lunch. You'd be hard-pressed to drive here, eat, and get back to your job in the time it took me to get my food. Maybe this was an off day, I don't know. But the irony of the name definitely stood out. When I went to pay, I accidentally handed over my card. The waitress snapped, "I told you this was cash-only." Fair enough, but I innocently forgot after waiting almost an hour. I had cash. Total came to $32.38--not great value for what I got. For the record, I love hole-in-the-wall mom-and-pop shops. I've been to plenty with gruff servers and greasy food I'd eat again tomorrow. This just wasn't one of them. read more

What an experience one has here at an unassuming spot in a less crowded area. The smash style burger here is made as good as it gets, a no thrills burger that hits on all the marks. Fries were good but a bit overcooked. Was pleasantly surprised by the chalice of beer, served as cold as you will get. This is an institution and a must. Just remember to bring cash! read more

Workingman's Friend - Cheeseburger, Fries, 32oz beer - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Absolutely delicious!!!!!! The food was amazing! The service was great. The vibe was perfect!!! Loved the "fish bowl beer". Will be returning again and again!!!!!!! read more

I've been coming here for years and never disappoints. Love a family owned classic hole in the wall/old school diner vibe. No kids allowed and beer in chilled chalices - what more could you ask for?!?!? Got the usual cheese burger and onion rings with a beer. Service was great per usual and the food was typical burger and side without trying to come off fancy. The onion rings were fresh and crispy! Burger is a smash burger with fresh toppings and bun. Just remember CASH only! read more

Workingman's Friend - Cheeseburger. Onion Rings. - Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Indy, I was definitely put in my place during my visit to Workingman's Friend. I'm embarrassed to confess that it is the year 2023 and I finally visited Workingman's Friend for the first time after living in Indy for 14+ years. I thought I'd be able to call ahead to place my order (wrong - no one answers the phones... they're busy enough as it is). I made the trek to grab some cash - ya know, because they're cash only and old school in the best of ways. I thought, alright alright, I'll hustle over there between meetings and grab a quick carry out burger - wrong again. "That will be 45 minutes". Shit...it looks like I'll be taking my next call from the parking lot because I'm not leaving here without a burger... ya know, now that I have cash and all... All this to say - yep, they're totally still popular and 110% still an Indy staple. I'm just really late to the party. I ordered a smashburger with all the fixings and an order of onion rings. I waited in my car for 45 minutes while Workingman's Friend was BUSTLING the entire time -not a table or spot at the bar to be found. I finally got home with my carryout order and it was quite delicious. Greasy and delicious as one would expect from a cash-only, old school spot like Workingman's Friend. I've officially made the pilgrimage and look forward to future visits and alloting the appropriate amount of time to do so. read more

See all

The ShellyRitas are going STRONG! Shelly is ON IT! Show up and she knows exactly what you want! I sure hope they NEVER change hands. Love this place! Adore Shelly! read more

Delicious! Reasonably priced with friendly staff. I had the double with fries, burger had crispy edges and the bacon was perfectly cooked!