When you’re looking for a place that’s not just about food but also about an experience, Agave & Rye in downtown Indianapolis is the spot. We arrived around 5 p.m. and were immediately captivated by the vibrant atmosphere. With a mix of artistic decor, graffiti-style murals, chandeliers, and sculptures, the restaurant felt like a fun museum where you could eat, drink, and play at the same time. Plus, its convenient location just a block away from Gainbridge Fieldhouse makes it a perfect spot for a pre-game or post-event meal.
To kick off our night, we decided to try some of Agave & Rye’s unique appetizers. First, we ordered the Carne Asada Egg Roll, which was a delicious combination of House Carne Asada, A&R Sesame+Ginger Sauce, A&R Spicy Chili & BBQ Jam, baby corn, water chestnuts, cilantro, green onion, carrots, red bell peppers, and ramen noodles. The fusion of flavors was absolutely mouthwatering. Alongside that, we had the Cheesy Corn Fritters with Serrano Aioli, and let me tell you, these were amazing! Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and paired perfectly with the aioli, it was a fantastic way to start our food adventure.
Next, we dove into their legendary tacos, each one a true masterpiece of bold flavors, textures, and vibrant colors. We started with The Wave Rider, featuring blackened crispy salmon, pineapple mandarin slaw, serrano aioli, and cowboy candy, creating the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory. Then came The Becky, a delicious combination of crispy chicken, mac n cheese, sweet & spicy bacon, A&R Spicy BBQ Jam, and crispy tobacco onions, an explosion of textures and flavors in every bite.
We also had The Filthy Fajita, loaded with carne asada steak, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, red peppers, Mexican rice, chipotle crema, queso, and cilantro, offering a rich and satisfying bite. And finally, the Queen of Chicken Birria, a taco packed with herbed chicken, sweet & spicy bacon, Oaxaca cheese, onion, and a side of dipping consomé, juicy, smoky, and bursting with deep flavors.
Agave & Rye’s tacos are anything but ordinary. Each one is crafted with bold ingredients, creative toppings, and unexpected pairings, making them a true flavor adventure.
As if we hadn’t indulged enough, we also went for the Grilled Crispy Chicken Burrito, which came packed with chopped crispy chicken, mac n cheese, sweet & spicy bacon, queso, white cheddar, Agave BBQ Jam, and BBQ ranch dipping sauce. This was a must-try dish, pure comfort food wrapped up in a delicious burrito. It was rich, cheesy, crispy, and just downright satisfying.
What sets Agave & Rye apart is not just the food but the overall experience. The bar area features arcade machines, making it a perfect spot for a date night or a fun gathering with friends. You can sip on a cocktail, play some games, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Beyond the incredible food and ambiance, what truly made our experience memorable was the outstanding service. The servers and the entire team at Agave & Rye were welcoming, attentive, and always ready with great recommendations. Their hospitality added to the warmth of the place, making us feel right at home while enjoying our meal.
To end our night on a high note, we ordered the Churro Chips & Strawberry Cheesecake Dip with chocolate sauce and whipped cream. It was the perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and creaminess, a delightful way to finish an incredible meal.
Service that makes you feel at home. The staff is known for their friendly, welcoming vibe, making every visit a memorable one.
If you’re in downtown Indianapolis and looking for a place that offers unique flavors, a playful environment, great service, and an all-around fantastic time, Agave & Rye should be at the top of your list. From the bold flavors of their tacos to the artistic and interactive ambiance, this restaurant is a must-visit. Whether you’re on a date night or out with friends, you’re guaranteed to leave full, happy, and already planning your next visit.
