Best After Work Happy Hours in Indianapolis

After a hard day (or week or month!) at work, sometimes you just need to kick back, commiserate with your fellow 9-to-5 dragon slayers, and unwind over a drink and some munchies. In these trying economic times, regular decompression is especially important, and the right atmosphere can go a long way toward restoring your good humor. Luckily, for residents of Indianapolis, the downtown revitalization effected over the last 15 years or so has completely changed the landscape and left you with several stellar Happy Hour options beyond yesteryear's dingy local tavern. Here, then, is a short list of the best places to enjoy your happy hour in Indianapolis (remember to enjoy their offerings responsibly).

Champps Restaurant

Location: 8711 N. River Crossing

Phone: 317-574-0333

Website: http://www.champps.com/

The Scoop:

The ubiquitous sports bar, Champps offers all of the essential amenities that Americans have come to expect from such an establishment, namely beer, burgers, and TVs. Actually, lots and lots of BIG TVs, constant sports programming, a large and varied menu selection, and consistent quality and atmosphere make Champps a favorite of just about everyone. Add in Happy Hour from 3:30-6:30 PM Monday-Friday, complete with daily drink specials, and you have a perfect after-work destination.

Claddagh Irish Pub

Location: 234 S. Meridian St.

Phone: 317-822-6274

Website: http://claddaghirishpubs.com/

The Scoop:

For those seeking authenticity in their unwinding, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better choice than Claddagh Irish Pub. From the architecture, to the Guinness on draft, to the traditional pub food fare, Claddagh provides the feel and experience of a local Irish tavern while consistently delivering cleanliness and fine quality in general. Stop by for Happy Hour from 3-7 PM Monday-Friday, check out the daily drink specials, and soak up the atmosphere.

Adobo Grill

Location: 110 E. Washington St.

Phone: 317-822-9990

Website: http://www.adobogrill.com/indianapolis/index.aspx

The Scoop:

The Adobo Grill provides an authentic, upscale Mexican dining experience, replete with delicious appetizers and entrees, colorful artwork and architecture, and, of course a well-stocked drink menu. Happy Hour is from 4-6 PM Monday-Friday and includes daily food and drink specials. When you're ready for an after-hours "fiesta", the Adobo Grill is hard to beat.