The Workingman’s Friend

Smack in the middle of the industrial/residential area west of the White River is a working man’s bar that serves an unforgettable double cheeseburger. The glass-brick-fronted Workingman’s Friend draws crowds at mealtimes, but our visit on a Monday night found the bar empty save for a small group of men quietly sipping beers and ignoring a TV tuned to a ballgame. We ordered Buds and double cheeseburgers from the no-nonsense bartender, who then went into the kitchen to prepare our meals, as we brought our beers to a table.

What the bartender/chef brought out was reminiscent of the burgers served at The Sycamore in Connecticut, which is to say they are flattened against the grill while they cook, resulting in a crusty burger, particularly around the ultra-thin edges. Fully dressed with lettuce, tomato, and onion, we loved this double cheeseburger. Sided by good O-rings, and accompanied by a fish-bowl glass of American brew, this meal is an Indy classic.

Notes: As this is a tavern, no one under 21 is allowed inside and smoking is permitted. Monday through Thursday, it closes at 5pm. Friday it is open until 8pm, Saturday until 3pm. Closed Sunday.