At Culinary Dropout in Nora Plaza, the draw is comfort food with room for a longer evening: shared starters, cocktails and live music, with closing times that stretch to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Quirky decor gives this American gastropub its casual character, and outdoor seating adds another option for groups.
Pretzel bites with provolone fondue and the signature fried chicken are the recurring favorites in diner accounts. The chicken earns praise for moist meat and seasoning, though its substantial breading divides opinion. Diners also point to fish and chips, salmon and whipped feta with tahini dip; some find the portions uneven for the price.
Cocktails get repeated praise, with an Old Fashioned and sangria among the drinks singled out. Weekend brunch runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with banana bread French toast drawing an enthusiastic mention for its richness. Weekday happy hour runs from 3 to 6 p.m.
Culinary Dropout is at 1320 E. 86th Street in Indianapolis’s Nora/Far Northside area. Hours are Monday–Thursday, 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m.–midnight; Saturday, 10 a.m.–midnight; and Sunday, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Pricing is moderate, and reservations, takeout and delivery are offered.