“My favorite theater day is Sunday, because I’m usually at TOTS on Friday and Saturday, so I love having brunch first at Mesh followed by a matinee theater performance.”
—Lori Raffel, Theatre on the Square
“Rook is my go-to for nights downtown and all points south. It’s like a quick, tasty trip through Asia. When I’m heading north for a show, Twenty Tap always gets my business. So. Much. Good. Beer.”
—Marisol Gouveia, Indianapolis Zoo
“My two favorite places to eat before or after a show are Sakura Japanese Restaurant for sushi and hot sake or Major Restaurant, which serves Ethiopian cuisine, including a traditional honey wine. It’s well worth the drive—I’m hungry just thinking about it.”
—Keesha Dixon, Asante Children’s Theatre
“My secret favorite post-show spot is Burgerhaus. Located on the canal, it’s off the beaten path from the theater district, so it’s a delicious alternative to long lines close to the theaters.”
—Georgeanna Smith, NoExit Theatre Company
“I love to go to La Margarita in Fountain Square after a First Friday show. If you’re lucky enough to grab a seat outside, snuggle up at the fire pit and try a flight of tequila.”
—Ashlee Wilson Fujawa, Keep Indianapolis Beautiful
“This fall you’ll see me ride a Pacer’s Bikeshare on the Cultural Trail to The Cabaret (feels just like NYC cabaret), and then bike back to Fletcher Place for a late-night bite at Bluebeard (uberaffordable oysters and perfect pies) with a final nightcap at Hotel Tango. Cardio, cabaret, and cocktails—huzzah!”
—Michael Pettry, Indianapolis Symphonic Choir
“Rook’s steamy bowl of seasonal Ramen in Fletcher Place recently saved the day after a late show at Hilbert—thank you, late hours! I’m also a sucker for carry-out curry from Siam Square.”
—Brittany Smith, Yelp
“I love places on Mass Ave, including the Chatterbox, especially when I start my First Friday tour. Siam Square is a favorite in Fountain Square, where I visit iMOCA and the Murphy Building, along with the pop-up galleries.”
—Anila Quayyum Agha, Herron School of Art and Design
This article appeared in The Ticket, a 2015 special publication.
