A Taste of History: Inside Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar, Indianapolis’ Newest Dining Destination

Stepping inside Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar feels less like entering a typical dining room and more like discovering a thoughtfully preserved piece of Indianapolis history with a fresh, modern heartbeat. The restaurant is housed in a former bank building, and rather than disguising that legacy, it celebrates it. Dramatic ceilings, architectural details, and a carefully curated blend of old and new design elements immediately set the tone. One of the most striking features is the original bank vault, now converted into a cozy and intimate dining nook. Dining within its heavy steel walls feels equal parts exclusive and nostalgic, creating a memorable atmosphere that elevates the entire experience.

At its core, Harrison’s centers on Italian-American comfort food, but with an added layer of elegance and a subtle nod to steakhouse tradition. The menu strikes a thoughtful balance between familiar favorites and refined executions, making it just as suitable for a special occasion as it is for an easy yet elevated night out.

Our meal began with the Italian Meatballs, which offered a satisfying blend of richness and tenderness. Nestled in a homemade marinara, the meatballs were hearty without being overwhelming. The sauce delivered a pleasant acidity that balanced the savory depth of the meat.

The next course introduced two salads with completely different, but equally appealing, profiles. The Antipasto Salad delivered bold, savory flavors, featuring Genoa salami, prosciutto, mozzarella and an assortment of Italian favorites. Each ingredient played its role, creating a balanced harmony of salt, freshness, and texture. The house dressing added a lively, well-rounded finish that tied everything together.

In contrast, the Burrata Salad leaned into simplicity and indulgence. At its center sat a cloud-like burrata, creamy and luxurious, accompanied by juicy tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, fresh basil, and toasted pine nuts. A drizzle of balsamic glaze added the perfect hint of sweetness and acidity. Light yet decadent, it was a beautifully composed dish that felt both fresh and satisfying. This was definitely one of my favorite items on the menu.

We also sampled the White Wine Mussels, which added a beautifully briny, Mediterranean note to the meal. The mussels arrived steaming in a fragrant broth infused with white wine, garlic, butter, and fresh herbs. The broth itself was worthy of attention — light yet deeply savory, ideal for soaking up with warm, crusty bread. It was a simple dish in presentation, but rich in nuance and execution, offering a delicate contrast to the heartier courses that followed.

When it came time for the main courses, Harrison’s proved why it stands out. The Chicken Parmesan Handheld offered a creative spin on a classic. A perfectly crisp chicken cutlet was layered with rich marinara and melted mozzarella, all nestled inside toasted sourdough. The bread added a subtle crunch and depth of flavor, while still allowing the chicken and sauce to take center stage. It was indulgent in the best possible way—comforting, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

The true showstopper, however, was Judy’s Lasagna. With its generous layers of pasta, seasoned meat, creamy cheese, and robust sauce, it embodied everything a lasagna should be. Each slice was structured, with visible layers that highlighted the care and attention behind its preparation.

Rounding out the experience was the 6 oz Filet, a beautifully cooked cut that was tender, juicy, and rich in natural flavor. Perfectly prepared, it served as a reminder that while Harrison’s excels at Italian fare, it also stands tall as a destination for expertly prepared steaks. The filet also comes with two side items of your choosing. Every Tuesday evening, Harrison’s offers Tuesday Filet Night, a 6oz filet, choice of soup or salad and choice of a side, all for $21.95. This is truly a deal not to be missed.

Beyond the kitchen, the overall ambiance and service elevate Harrison’s into something truly special. The staff is welcoming, knowledgeable, and attentive without being overbearing, creating an environment that feels both polished and warm. From dining inside a former bank vault to enjoying a thoughtfully crafted menu built on comfort and quality, every element works together to create something memorable.