Brent B.
Yelp
4 stars for a hipster bar that actually gets it right.
When it comes to unique cocktail bars aka hipster bars, many places get a little too "stuffy" with the concept. Whether it is an uncomfortable atmosphere or high-priced drinks that include ingredients just for the sake of justifying the price, many hipster bars aren't worth repeated visits. Fortunately, Lil Indies, located in the Mills District, doesn't fall into those traps.
When you show up at Lil Indies, the first thing I always seem to find is a fun food stand right outside. Whether it is empanadas or hot dogs, I've generally been able to get some street food before heading inside. Once you walk inside, you immediately see what looks like a cross between a haunted and 70's style living room. While I wasn't sure where I was the first time I visited, I will tell you that having all of these comfy couches and little tables makes the late night experience much more enjoyable for us old folks.
If you want a drink (since you are at a bar), the way you get one is to go over into the next room. Unlike the front room, the next room is an open (although small and dark) area with a bar. When you get up to the bar, you will see several boards with various drink options. One is a beer board (draft and bottle, another is a seasonal cocktails board with some interesting seasonal cocktails with "written out" looking text, and then a cocktails board with more cocktails in a more traditional font. Behind the bar is a wall with tons and tons of liquors for the bartenders to pull and use. I've ordered a couple of the drinks (can't quite remember the names due to the time of night, but I think the one pictured is a Snax Appeal), and the bartender has always been willing to explain what is in the drink and made me something that tasted quite delicious.
Overall, the combination of a cool and comfy seating concept with good drinks makes Lil Indies one of the better cocktail bars in Orlando. If you are looking for a cocktail while in the Mills District, this is a place you should check out.