If you’re new to the neighborhood or to our tavern, trust me, you won’t be a stranger for long. I can say that because Barringer’s has been around here for a while. 147 years, to be exact.
Our first customers walked through our front door in 1879. No electricity. We kept things cool for drinks with a block of ice in the ice cooler down in the cellar. Probably took a little longer to get a cold beverage – but everything took a little longer in those days.
Little by little, the main bar area just inside the doors began to take shape. Electricity replaced our gas lights inside and outside, about the same time the rest of the growing neighborhood got electricity. That also meant the Inter Urban streetcar made a stop at our corner. We loved it. Brought folks returning home from the city right to our doorstop.
As the tavern became more popular, we moved the original bar from the south wall to the north wall (a grand total of 20 feet), and added a few tables every couple of years. We also put up bar signs, photographs and posters on the walls. Just to keep things interesting.
Some 70 years after the original bar opened, Barringer’s new owners got hold of a long, solid oak bar from New York City, and promptly bumped the original bar out. (What makes a New York-style tavern bar? We looked it up to be sure.) It’s not a strictly defined architectural style exactly, but refers to a long, prominent bar with polished wooden top and brass foot rail.)
And just like that, Barringer’s Tavern was cool as hell. You laugh, but having a genuine New York-style bar inside was no small thing in Indy. Bars were a classic part of NYC’s culture. And now we had one right in the neighborhood. It was smooth, welcoming, unpretentious, and full of character compared to our former smaller, old-fashioned version.
We still use that bar. It’s hosted many a story, and untold toasts. It’s held up well through the years, and definitely adds to the historic charm of this place. We’ve also kept the tin ceilings, exposed brick here and there, vintage mirrors, old photographs and posters, and even a bit of the original wallpaper. Here, it’s all about comfort the sort of neighborhood feel (not to mention good food and drinks) that encourages lingering.
Doesn’t that sound like a great place to hang out? We think so. And hope you’ll join us. Barringer’s Tavern.
Where every seat feels like your usual spot.
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