Slippery Noodle Inn, Indianapolis

The Slippery Noodle Inn, nestled in downtown Indianapolis, holds the prestigious title of Indiana’s oldest continuously operating bar, a legacy that began in 1850 under the name Tremont House. Beyond its rich history as a blues bar and restaurant, the Noodle stands as the city’s oldest commercial building and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Over the decades, the Slippery Noodle Inn has woven its story into the fabric of American history. During the Civil War, it served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, providing refuge for those seeking freedom. During Prohibition, the establishment creatively rebranded itself as a restaurant, while beer continued to flow clandestinely from its basement. It later housed a bordello until 1953, with tales of dramatic events adding to its lore.

The building itself is a historical artifact. Its tin ceiling, installed around 1890, and the tiger oak bar—over a century old—bear witness to its enduring charm. In the back, bullet holes from the notorious Brady and Dillinger gangs, who used the stable as a target range, remain embedded in the walls. Meat hooks and water lines in the basement whisper of a time when cattle and swine were butchered on-site.

Over the years, the bar underwent multiple name changes reflecting its German heritage, from Concordia House to Germania House, before evolving into Beck’s Saloon, Moore’s Beer Tavern, and finally the Slippery Noodle Inn in 1963. The current name was decided after a lively family debate by the Yeagy family, who transformed the establishment into a premier Midwestern blues venue. In 2023, local industry veterans Jason Amonett and Sean Lothridge took the reins, pledging to preserve the rich legacy.

The Inn boasts two performance stages that have hosted legendary blues artists, making it a magnet for music lovers. With its storied past and vibrant present, the Slippery Noodle Inn remains an Indianapolis icon—a harmonious blend of history, music, and community.