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Friendly Tavern Review

  • Writer: Joshua Toyer
    Joshua Toyer
  • Jan 10
  • 2 min read

Updated: Feb 18

Date: 01/25/25

Restaurant Name: The Friendly Tavern

Address: 290 S Main Street, Zionsville, IN 46077

Phone Number: 317-873-5772



Josh and Harry at The Friendly Tavern
Josh and Harry at The Friendly Tavern

About: The Friendly Tavern is a historic neighborhood bar that offers a classic bar and dining experience. It has been located on the brick street in Zionsville since 1953, and has become a prime gathering spot for the community. The main draw to this place would be the atmosphere, with the staff being incredibly welcoming and... well, friendly.


Authenticity: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Rye bread and Swiss cheese, about as true to the patty melt tradition as you can get. Not much else to say here.


Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️★

The Friendly Tavern's patty melt was tasty- definitely above average, but not a five star experience. It was consistent with the restaurant's promise of good food, good service, and a friendly atmosphere.


Value: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The price was $10 for the patty melt, as well as a side of potato chips, though you could get french fries or buffalo chips by adding $1.25. This was pretty good for a four star, so this is honestly a bargain, even with the substitution fee.


Ambiance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️★

Quite good. This is a tavern, so it was no surprise that it was like a beehive of activity with little privacy and lots of buzz. While that's not our preference, it comes with the tavern experience.


Total Experience: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️★

The service was great, and our server was pleasant. If the authentic tavern experience is what you are looking for, the Friendly Tavern is for you.


Summary: The Friendly Tavern was an enjoyable experience, with good food, good service, and modest prices. It's easy to see why they are a community gathering spot with a loyal clientele.


Leadership Lessons: The Friendly Tavern consistently delivers on its promise of a no-frills dining experience, and doesn't pretend to be something it's not. It has done that well for many years and is reaping the rewards of staying true to its brand.


 
 
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