The New AJ's Lounge — Restaurant in Indianapolis

Racism and disrespect is alive and well at AJ's Lounge. I used Spothero to fine a place to park while I was in town. The pictures of AJ's and the neighboring business were shown on the app. As I was leaving my car, a black woman with blonde hair from AJ's stopped me and told me I couldn't park there. I showed her my parking pass and she still said that I couldn't park there. I showed her the pictures of the building which she came out of on my parking pass and asked it if was the neighboring business was where I should park or who I could talk to and she told me I could park on the street. I explained I paid to park there. I asked where the entrance for the business was or if she knew who I could talk to, I couldn't be the first person who has tried to park there and this has been an issue, and she responded that said she didn't know what they were doing and that was their business. As I was walking to the neighboring business, she again told me I couldn't park there again and aggressively told me I needed to move my car before she called the police. I responded that I would more the car once I found out where to park. I wasn't moving it twice. Mind you, there were 2 cars parked there and probably 8 open spots, there was no emergency or rush, this was just the 2024 version of "you can't sit here." The neighbors explained that they owned the entire lot and apologized for her behavior, but within the two minutes I took to talk to the neighboring business and move my car, she called a man out and was taking pictures of my vehicle. I decided to share this experience because I wasn't going to let the 1960 be resurrected with that type of intimidation. I told her sorry for the misunderstanding, but hope in the future she learns how to get along with her neighbors and considers how she's treats others who are complete...

If you’ve never been to AJ’s Lounge on the south side of Indy, go ahead and add it to your list. It’s a Black-owned gem with deep roots and a whole lot of heart. The vibe is chill and welcoming — perfect for first-timers, but it’s also clear this place has a strong crew of regulars who’ve been coming for years (and they’ve got stories to tell).

The soul food hits just right. My buddy and I went with the fried catfish platter — crispy, seasoned well, and satisfying. It comes with hot sauce, ketchup, and a side of coleslaw, which pulls the whole plate together. We kept it classic with fries, but you can switch it up with fried okra or onion rings if that’s your thing.

Drinks? Let’s just say the “heavy pour” is real. There’s a 2-drink minimum, and when I ordered a Jack and Coke, it came mostly Jack — not mad at that! 😂

The decor is old-school with a rugged beauty — think vintage charm with a touch of elegance. Fresh flowers on the tables added a nice touch. And the atmosphere at the bar? Loud, full of laughter, and rich with connection. I met some genuinely cool folks — full of culture, kindness, and conversation.

AJ’s isn’t just a place to eat — it’s an experience. Great food, strong drinks, good people, and a whole lot of history. Go with an open mind and an empty stomach. You’ll leave full in more...

I have been coming here for 7 years, lately every time I come the owner gets more rude each time. She is not a nice person! Always frowning, not polite, very entitled! Yes, it's the oldest black bar but no one has to come. It's clear why I am yet to see more than 8 people there at a time, including the owner and waitress. Customer service is important even in bars. She came and took an empty chair from our table just because my friend had her leg resting on it...who does that when your bar is empty! It would be different She had her shoe on the chair but what will a leg do? I've referred so many people there and invited so many to join me...