Bar Guide: Elkhart County, Indiana

There’s a lot to love about Indiana, but there’s even more to love about the heartiness and innovation of its northern regions. From small businesses making big waves with delicious restaurants and decadent dessert spots that capture our undivided attention, there’s no denying that with a fall chill in the air, it’s the perfect time to start warming up and hitting our favorite cocktail and bar spots.

Thanks to the beautiful charm of small towns like Goshen, Elkhart and Middlebury, it’s time to skip the metropolitan jungles of this beautiful state and tap into some of our favorite cities in northern Indiana that serve novel and classic drinks for those looking to indulge in a spot rich in history, arts and a vibrant foodie culture that is burgeoning.

Artisan

Address: 507 S. Main St., Elkhart, IN 

This snazzy and artful restaurant is one of Elkhart’s newest hot spots in the heart of downtown, serving up beautiful drinks and food. Focusing on small portions and multiple courses, Artisan welcomes a creative aspect to artful eating with a gorgeous and intimate space, set against leather booths, exposed brick and abstract art. Besides receiving acclaim from patrons for its novel metropolitan-vibe, Artisan received the AAA 4-Diamond rating in its first year of business and is an establishment beloved by many in and around the community for its luxurious dining experience. With a wide and diverse drink menu, their cocktails are amazing with a capital “A.” From the Moscow Mule to the French Martini, their cocktails are a must and will guarantee you’ll have a fabulous night ahead.

41 Degrees North

Address: 104 Main St., Middlebury, IN

Looking for the perfect neighborhood bar and restaurant where everyone knows your name? Situated in the quaint little Amish town of Middlebury and roughly 20 minutes northeast of Goshen, 41 Degrees North offers a cozy and intimate dining experience with a hip and relaxed atmosphere. Serving burgers, steaks and seafood, this beautifully decorated and trendy bar features an equally intoxicating menu of drinks that are a must-try — like their Margatini, which is light on flavor but very effective after. With efficient and friendly service, this might just be your new favorite place for a drink and meetup.

Common Spirits

Address: 111 W. Lincoln Ave., Goshen, IN 

This modern, craft-cocktail and beer bar nestled in the heart of downtown Goshen is one that definitely hits the spot. With an atmosphere that’s both intimate and cozy, Common Spirits mixes a hometown feel with that big city vibe for those looking to try something new. Offering a diverse menu of craft beers on draft, bottle selection of domestics, and creative cocktails, this cabin-chic bar is big on flavor and congeniality. Not to mention, their simple and rustic menu complements your every craving. Try their Frozen Whiskey Smash with benchmark bourbon, lemon juice, black tea and a house mint simple syrup — it will be your new favorite and is totally Insta-worthy.

Iechyd Da Brewing Company

Address: 317 N. Main St., Elkhart, IN

Touted a local gem by Hoosiers and consistently busy with foodies from across the state and surrounding areas, Iechyd Da Brewing Company boasts a great atmosphere with good food and a welcomed bar of rotating taps from across the board. Their TaTa Rosa beer is not only delicious with hints of fruit and a slight sweetness, but it’s house-brewed and makes for an incredible pairing to their fresh and flavorful menu of pizza and sandwiches. Though spacious and perfect for social outings, this place is very welcoming with a cozy and intimate feel. While this mom and pop operation with Welsh roots is a good half hour out of Goshen though, it’s still is one of the best social spots in Elkhart County to get your drink on.

Constant Spring

Address: 219 S. Main St., Goshen, IN

Constant Spring is one of the hippest and most modern hot spots in Goshen. Offering up much more than just handcrafted libations and a diverse menu of cocktails and beers with five rotating taps, this casual and trendy gastro-pub offers craft brews and fresh area-sourced ingredients straight from the Indiana countryside for creative and complementary bar bites. With daily specials and drinks that are bound to tantalize your taste buds, it’s no wonder this trendy Goshen bar has received a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor. One visit will tell you why.

Kaizen Hibachi Sushi Grill & Bar

Address: 2820 Elkhart Rd., Goshen, IN

With a great atmosphere, Kaizen Hibachi Sushi Grill & Bar is more than just a hot spot for dining — it’s an experience for those looking to amp up their foodie game and indulge. As a friendly Japanese palace of sumptuous seafood fare and an extensive menu of fresh made-to-order meals with portions beyond compare, this bustling establishment is nothing like anything you’ve ever tried. With a bar full of delicious cocktails (like the Pineapple Passion) and beers of all kinds (like the North Coast Prankster), Kaizen is perfect for a night out with family or friends, that romantic date with your significant other, or even just some alone time. If that wasn’t enough, during the weekends this space transforms into a legit nightclub that looks and feels like one from Mass Avenue in Indy.

Goshen Brewing Co.

Address: 315 W. Washington St., Goshen, IN

Located just two blocks off Main Street, this family friendly brewpub features a modern menu of Southern-style smoked food fused with an Asian influence. Close to downtown with easy access to the Millrace bike path, the Goshen Brewing Co. serves 12 great beers that you really won’t find anywhere else — trust me. The menu is fresh and clean from smoked chicken wraps to beef brisket sandwiches, the crew work with local farmers to provide patrons with farm-to-table of the best tasting food. Did we mention how delicious their macaroni and cheese of Gouda and Brie cheeses is? If you’re a cheese fiend, you need to try it.

{Check out our Goshen Restaurant Guide for more picks like this!}

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Do you live in Elkhart County, Indiana or visit often? What are some of your favorite bars and cocktails spots in and around the city? Let us know in the comments below.

{Featured image: Iechyd Da Brewing Company}