Welcome to Strange Bird
At Strange Bird, located in Indianapolis, we celebrate the spirit of adventure through eclectic flavors and vibrant atmosphere. Our culinary journey is rooted in hearty ramen, expertly crafted cocktails, and unforgettable bites like the TogaBlood chicken wings and grilled oysters. Each dish is a testament to quality and creativity, showcasing rich broths and fresh ingredients. The inviting decor and lively vibe enhance the dining experience, making it perfect for date nights or gatherings with friends. Whether indulging in classic cocktails like the Mai Tai or exploring innovative specials, guests find themselves enchanted, eager to return to our extraordinary flavors and welcoming hospitality.
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128 S Audubon Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46219, United States Hotline: +1 317-550-4115
Welcome to Strange Bird, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Indianapolis at 128 S Audubon Rd. This vibrant restaurant is reeling in patrons with its unique blend of Japanese ramen and tiki culture, creating a dining experience that’s both exciting and delicious. The air is thick with a lively atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for date nights or casual dinners alike.
As soon as you step inside, the eye-catching decor encapsulates the essence of its name—strange yet delightful, inviting both the adventurous and the traditional. The carefully curated lo-fi tunes provide a relaxed vibe, perfect for sipping on their creatively crafted cocktails while you wait for your table.
- Cocktails: Say goodbye to boring drinks! Strange Bird serves an array of vibrant tiki cocktails. One standout is the Mai Tai, a timeless classic featuring 12-year old Jamaican rum and a blend of fresh flavors. Each sip echoes the tropical flavors of the Caribbean, making it a must-try for cocktail lovers. For a deeper dive, the Fog Cutter combines Rhum Agricole with Cognac and Sherry for an exceptional flavor journey.
- Ramen: Naturally, the ramen is where Strange Bird truly shines. Diners can't seem to stop raving about the Tantanmen and Shoyu ramen. The broth has an incredible depth, each bowl perfectly paired with bouncy, firm noodles. The toppings, including expertly sliced meats, elevate the experience to another level. Even the vegetarian options are bursting with flavor, proving that this kitchen doesn't shy away from creativity.
- Appetizers: Don’t overlook the appetizers! The TogaBlood chicken wings, with their complex flavors and perfect crunch, have earned a cult following among the regulars. The grilled oysters also come highly recommended, freshly shucked and brimming with quality. These dishes are designed to complement the fantastic cocktails, creating an ideal pairing that will make your taste buds dance.
Service at Strange Bird has been unanimously praised by guests. The knowledgeable staff are quick to offer suggestions, enhancing your dining experience. Plus, the lively ambiance adds to the excitement of your meal. Be prepared for a potential wait—most patrons describe it as a small price to pay for what lies ahead.
In conclusion, Strange Bird is not just a restaurant; it’s a feast for all senses. Whether you come for the ramen, the drinks, or the welcoming atmosphere, you’re sure to leave satisfied and eager to return. So gather your friends or that special someone, and prepare for an unforgettable meal in this delightful eatery.
Food was very good ramen. Tiki style cocktails were also very tasty. Little bit pricey but a fun experience overall with good food and drinks. Note, they do add a service charge to your bill, make sure you are aware when tipping.
My favourite date night place!! We have been here twice within fifteen days as the food, service and atmosphere are impeccable and we want to keep coming back again and again. One thing to keep in mind, they have a long wait, usually 30-45mins and honestly worth it. We went on weekday and a long wait of 45mins and the second time was on Sunday night, which was no wait at all Food: As a vegetarian there are fewer tasty ramen places and this is one of the two best in Indy! The ramen and the appetitizer are wonderful. The drinks are very well curated and love them too! My favourite is the Tantamen Ramen and curry wings (vegan version with tofu) Service: Super sweet staff and always helpful. Great suggestions overall and quite quick. Atmosphere: The vibe is lovely! The decor is superb and the vibe and overall feel is lively.
Strange Bird is in my top three for favorite restaurants in Indy. The staff is exceptional and the food never disappoints. They make the best MaiTai I’ve ever had, as well as Zombie. Their TogaBlood chicken wings are the best wings I’ve ever had. Also try the grilled oysters! Obviously the ramen is where it’s at. But don’t sleep on the other dishes. The Katsu Curry with Tofu is my favorite entree on the menu. It’s the perfect blend of flavor, spices, and sweetness. It doesn’t get much better than Strange Bird for local Indy cuisine.
Food and the vibes were amazing. We couldn’t get in another place for dinner so came here on the recommendation of that hostess. There was a bit of a wait but you could order drinks while you waited. It was such a fun atmosphere and all the food we tried was incredible. Ramen is amazing but also some of the best chicken wings too.
The best place to get ramen in Indy. I taste the love and quality. My favorite is the Shoyu ramen. The broth has depth and is pure and balanced. The noodles are perfectly bouncy and firm with perfect bite. Get a side of spice to add to the noodles and it just takes them over the top and accentuates everything nicely. The meat was sliced perfectly thin and cooked just right (I am very picky about the meat and they passed regarding thickness and doneness, if the meat is wrong I will not eat it). The rum cake was divine, just enough rum without being overpowering with a delicate crumb to the cake and a crisp sweet exterior that has perfect chew. I normally get the oysters and they never dissapoint, the oysters here are the best I have had in Indy. The parking lot is small, probably like 20 cars worth of space maybe. Street parking on the side is available, just get here early if you don't want a long wait or if you want a parking spot.
Turbo the man behind shucking the oysters is the life blood of this amazing restaurant! He always has a smile and you can tell he loves his job! There are a few different Oysters they use but you can tell the quality is there. No sediment or sand in the shells. Clean and delicious. The ramen is top class and a favorite between me and my friends here in Indy compared to the other ramen shops we have visited. Prices are up to date and the Oysters half off for their happy hour leave me in bliss every time I go. Just bring a friend that doesn't like them so you get there 12 half off as well! __ will be joining the Oysters club soon to come back for more delicious food!!! They never disappoint!!
If you enjoy ramen you'll love Strange Bird. Incredible broths, delicious noodles & insanely tasty cocktails. & For wing fans, I highly recommend toga blood. Will rock your world
One of my new favorites. Highly recommend the Tantanmen soupless ramen. Packed with flavor. Gyoza. Rum cake. Fun drinks. Get the Waikiki Gold Rush. It's all good. Plus the vibes are outstanding.