The vibe of any city can almost always be revealed in the personalities of its most popular pubs, bars, clubs, and taverns. Whether the top watering holes offer food into the wee hours of morning or not, it’s the selection of beers, wines, mixed drinks, and cocktails that almost always really gets any party going.
Ft. Wayne, Indiana bars are some of the best in the country, and when you also include the top bars in the surrounding areas, the possibilities are endless. From Syracuse bars to taverns in Warsaw to pubs in South Bend, here is a list of the top five bars near Ft. Wayne that you’ll want to put on your weekend hotlist:
- The Pier & Back Porch – Syracuse, Indiana
Established in 2013 inside Oakwood Resort in Syracuse is The Pier & Back Porch. It’s routinely a top choice for bar-goers who enjoy exquisitely casual dining along with top-shelf selections of drinks – all in a lakeside location. Offering live entertainment on weekends and menus created by professional kitchen teams, The Pier & Back Porch is a favorite for anyone who wants a full selection of drinks from beers to margaritas who also are in the mood for good atmosphere and good company. The venue also has seasonal outdoor dining available that provides patrons with beautiful views of Lake Wawasee. Reservations are accepted, but not required; take a look at the menus or book your reservations here.
- Deer Park Irish Pub – Ft. Wayne, Indiana
Occupying a small parcel of a block in Ft. Wayne on Leesburg Road is Deer Park Irish Pub, which continuously makes local lists of the best bars in Ft. Wayne. Here, you’ll get swept away in the music and dancing while serious beer drinkers will appreciate the vast and well-chosen selection of beers on tap. Be sure to try the bar’s famous tacos on Tuesdays, and make it a point to attend a variety of special celebrations at “The Deer Park”, especially on St. Patrick’s Day after the famous “world’s shortest parade.” Experience the bar in Ft. Wayne where everyone leaves with a smile. Check out Deer Park Irish Pub on Facebook.
- Common Spirits – Goshen, Indiana
Jami and Ryan Hawkins created Common Spirits in Goshen in 2013. They wanted a place that was unique, welcoming, and second to none that served classic cocktails made from the freshest ingredients. The popular bar’s building was originally a bank, which still contains the original bank safe – and it’s dated 1849! Serving up a huge selection of tasty foods, spirits of all kinds, and favorite beers, Common Spirits is a must-visit location for anyone around the area. Check out the menu offered by Common Spirits on their website.
- Downtown Eatery & Spirits – Warsaw, Indiana
Warsaw is a town that has “great atmosphere” down to a science, and the Downtown Eatery & Spirits is certainly part of that greatness. Located on W Center Street, this bar offers some knock-out daily specials – including prime rib on Fridays. The food, however, is only part of what consistently gives this place a spot on all the “Best of” lists; reviews galore talk about the great service, friendly staff, and awesome drinks – and yes, the atmosphere, too. You can find live music here, classic bar foods, an impressive selection of beers on tap, cocktails and mixed drinks, and more, all at Downtown Eatery & Spirits. Learn more about this Warsaw staple by visiting their Facebook page.
- Exchange Whiskey Bar – South Bend, Indiana
This hidden gem on Jefferson Boulevard in South Bend is truly a haven for lovers of whiskey. In fact, the Exchange Whiskey Bar boasts over 300 of the best whiskeys in the country available right onsite. Like Common Spirits in Goshen, Exchange also resides in an old bank building; this one is one of the last banks robbed by John Dillinger. The swanky hot spot pays homage to the Speakeasy Era with vintage furniture, Victorian décor, and wrought iron details. Check out these purveyors of premium spirits and get your fill of cocktails based on authentic speakeasy recipes at Exchange Whiskey Bar.
Although many areas in Indiana can claim they have the best bars in the state, those in and near Ft. Wayne – including Goshen, Warsaw, South Bend, and Syracuse – are not ever to be outdone. If you’re planning on barhopping through the area in the future, be sure to book your reservation for a hotel room nearby at Oakwood Resort in Syracuse so you can begin your hopping at The Pier & Back Porch Restaurant and Bar!
