The Workingman's Friend

2 of the giant double cheeseburgers, order of onion rings, chili with onion & shredded cheddar cheese, and can of coke runs about $34. With tip makes $40... and worth every penny (CASH ONLY). Everyone having good time visiting. Have had the tenderloin as well and it is one of the best I've had a well. Walls echo so much it is too hard to hear person right next to you... no problem. Hard to chit chat with a big dbl cheese smash burger in your pie hole 😂 That chili is perfect just like mom used to make. Clean out the couch cushions and your car change drawer or whatever it takes to come get ya some!

Classic, old-school feel and taste. This spot came up on several lists of places one must visit in the city. They are known for their smashburgers - always fresh, never frozen. It's not at all far from Downtown, maybe 10-15 minutes away. The ambience was a large, very open, very clean, no fuss diner. Simple menu, straightforward reasonable (leaning towards cheap) prices. It seems most patrons order the double cheeseburger. I opted for a single once I saw the double land on someone else's table as I went to order. The single and fries filled me up good. The burger was hot, fresh off the griddle. The crunchy crust I expected from a smashburger was not there but that was fine with me. The burger came on a standard bun and was topped with a slice of american cheese, lettuce and tomato (I didn't want raw onion), mayo, and dill pickles provided on the side. Fries were hot and crunchy. It was a satisfying, homemade tasting burger. Only recommendation would be seasoning the meat. I did not detect even a hint of salt. Some salt, pepper and a lil onion powder would take this burger to the next level and make it a burger that can'tve forgotten. And I would ask for grilled onions if I found myself here again. The service was so friendly. I read many have to wait for a table but I walked in and sat right away at 1pm on a Tuesday. All told, I was in and out (no pun intended) the door in under 30mins. For the experience of nostalgia and the price, I definitely recommend a visit.

If you’re looking for one of the best smash burgers in town, Working Man’s Friend is the place to go. The burger is everything you want—crispy edges, juicy in the middle, and packed with flavor. It’s simple, classic, and done right. Beyond the food, the atmosphere is what really sets this place apart. It’s got a no-frills, blue-collar charm that makes you feel right at home. The history on the walls, the old-school bar, and the friendly, unpretentious vibe make it a true Indianapolis institution. If you appreciate great burgers and a place with real character, you won’t be disappointed.

Saw this place on Tik Tok and had to try it out. We came at a really busy time. We had to wait for seating, which I expected. We ended up sharing a table with another couple, which was fine. We ordered our food and an alcoholic drink and waters. We got our alcoholic drinks right away, food in about 40 minutes, but we never got waters, and the server never returned to us until she brought the bill. I would have liked water to wash down my meal and probably would have ordered another cocktail as well. During busy times, I would suggest they have more help with tables. The smash burger was the best I've ever had. I would go back, but I would hope it would be a bit better service next time.

Fantastic burger 🍔 with outstanding service! Highly recommend for lunch in Downtown Indianapolis area. From the double cheeseburger to the fish sandwich 🥪 you can’t go wrong… unless you’re in a hurry cause it’s extremely busy!

Pretty good burger, quintessential American diner style. Tenderloin and French fries were just ok,.wouldn't order them again. Cash only, good chance you will need to wait in line if you aren't there close to opening. Be prepared

The Workingman’s Friend is as iconic as they say folks! The burgers could not be any better, they are the star of the show! The frosty beers or a Coke on ice with crispy fries and onion rings are a perfect combination! CASH ONLY

A family owned business for over a century. A must visit while in Indianapolis or visiting the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Classic American menu just the way the did it a generation ago. Great prices and great service. Ask for Gianni to be your server.

I just love this place. It's old school and good. I have never had the chili here and decided to give the 5 alarm a try. First of all I ordered a bowl because the cup looks small. I did not even come close to finishing the bowl! A cup would have been plenty. It was very good, but if I'm going to recommend something it's the burger! I did try the Cole slaw, I know it's a strange thing to go goo goo over but it was delicious! I also have to shout out for the service. It's such a pleasure dining here due to the staff. I always sit at the bar and the server is so friendly and kind.

INDIANA'S FINEST! a long-time staple of Indy and historic to the area.. perfect for a hangover meal. perfect for a work lunch with the guys. Old-timey looking like it did back in the day: some good things shouldn't be changed. Classic diner menu and always have the Indiana tenderloin or an awesome grilled cheese available. AWESOME grill - the reason the burgers are so amazing is because of this age-old grill they're being cooked on, I swear by it! Service could be improved but tbh the busy atmosphere and the hubbub all around make it a vibe. Come here to see what Indiana is all about! Hope this place never closes.

one of the better smash burgers I've had in a long time! Our server was super friendly and gave us a quick lay of the land since we hadn't previously visited. Wife and I each enjoyed a smash burger and a beverage. The food was certainly fresh cooked, came out in a reasonable time despite it being very busy. The burgers had a ton of flavor, cooked to perfection... the onion rings and tater tots were also delicious, i'll be back!

Delicious!! Prices were reasonable and staff was friendly!!! Did the double with fries , burger was crispy on the edges and bacon was crispy!! Cash only!

My friend was in town and wanted to try this place out. The hours are mostly lunch, but open Friday nights. Nothing fancy about the restaurant, but the waitress was very friendly. We both ordered the double cheeseburger. I felt there was way too much bread per meat ratio. The waitress did say they ran out of their regular buns so these were a bit bigger. I think in the future I would ask for no middle bun. The patty itself had a great taste. Just needed a lot of napkins. The onion rings were very good as well.

Went with a friend for lunch. Inside atmosphere was old-timey. We shared cheese sticks then each got a double burger. I got plain. We were both very satisfied with the meal! The burgers were smashed to perfection and the fries were solid. The cheese sticks were uniquely delicious and had very good ranch. Food took a bit longer to come out that normal, but only because they were so busy! Waitress was nice and straight to the point Would come back again!

A friend and I went for lunch during the week on a Thursday. This place gets a lot of hype for their burgers. As such, I ordered a cheeseburger and thought it was pretty good, but nothing crazy special, nor deserving of the "city's best" claims it sometimes draws. It was your typical smash burger. I would compare it to a higher end fast food type of smash burger (probably on par with a Culver's butterburger). The onion rings I got on the side were fine, not memorable but not bad. The biggest star of the show was the check - this place is cheap! Make sure to bring cash to pay. It did fill it up pretty quickly around the lunch hour, which is why I'm glad we got there a little earlier (11:30) since it is first come, first serve seating. I'd be happy going back, but in my mind I have another contender for the city's best burger and it leads by a wide margin. If you want a cheap (but solid quality) diner-type of vibe, this is your spot.

Adding my endorsement to the long list of reviews that this is the 'best burger in Indy''. I for one LOVE a classic thin smash burger, no frills. The crispy edges were out of this world. I got a double with everything and added mustard and ketchup. Next time, I'll ask for it without the center bun, but still loved it and ate the whole thing in record time. I went with my mom on a Friday afternoon around 12, peak lunch hour. There were tons of cars outside, but surprisingly a few open tables. We sat at the bar so as to mot take up an entire table and our server was wonderful. She asked if we'd been there before and when we said 'no', she replied - 'we're cash only and we're known for our cheeseburgers'. Super straightforward, good food, and it was nice to see the place filled with so many people enjoying their lunches.

This is an Indianapolis classic since 1918 and a must-visit for OG smashburgers (they've been preparing them this way for decades). Perennially at the top of any list of best burgers in Indy and in the state. Double cheeseburger is the way to go. Chili is also good, especially the Chili Mac which comes with spaghetti, cheese and onions. Excellent fries and onion rings. Pro tips: (1) if you can, try to to outside the usual 12-1 pm rush because they are packed every day of the week and the orders can be slow to arrive; (2) have a Schooner of beer-- a huge goblet that is ice cold and perfection; (3) for my double cheese, I ask them to leave out the piece of bread placed in the middle of the patties; (4) it's cash only. I have heard that the name comes the owner's generous offer to feed needy railroad employees during a general strike in the 1920s.

What an experience one has here at an unassuming spot in a less crowded area. The smash style burger here is made as good as it gets, a no thrills burger that hits on all the marks. Fries were good but a bit overcooked. Was pleasantly surprised by the chalice of beer, served as cold as you will get. This is an institution and a must. Just remember to bring cash!

Awesome service and even better burger! The burger exceeded my expectations and we will go back!

Never been before but had seen a lot of "best of" lists that included this place and their burger. It absolutely lives up to the hype. Friendly staff, good prices, the fastest I've ever been handed a beer. This place rules

The stars aligned and I was finally able to visit Workingman's Friend. It's open odd hours (11 to 2:45 most days, closed Sunday and Monday), it's cash only, and kids are not allowed. I'm never in this area of Indy at those times, I never carry cash, and I have children. So although I've lived in Indy almost eight years, this is the first time I've been. We were told by many and even by the servers themselves that Workingman's Friend is known for their burgers. So, of course, we had to get a burger. I got a cheeseburger with everything on it (raw onions, lettuce, tomato and pickles), but they also sell a double cheeseburger that has a bun in the middle, kind of like a Big Mac. The burger was good, but what overshadows that experience in my mind is this: Why did no one tell me that if I visited Workingman's Friend, I would leave smelling like Workingman's Friend all day? Despite washing my hands three times, my fingers smelled like burger. My clothes and hair smelled like diner grease. Even my car smelled like Workingman's Friend. When I picked up my youngest child from school, he asked, "Why did you eat in the car? It stinks in here." And I said, "I didn't! This is just from me sitting in the car after eating inside a restaurant!" I felt like I was reliving the Seinfeld episode where Jerry couldn't get the B.O. smell out of his car and off his body. So I guess the question is: Is the lingering smell of Workingman's Friend worth it in order to eat their food again? My answer is: Meh, not really. Indy has an abundance of great burger places, and this is one of them, but to be honest, it's not the best and not worth the odor and the hassle, for me. It's also not particularly cheap, considering their target demographic, which is apparently working-class people. And our service was incredibly slow: It took more than an hour, from start to finish, to order and eat two burgers and fries. This working woman needed to get back to work, dang it. I don't have time to spend 70 minutes at a diner for a burger lunch. I could see if I was ordering something unusual that took a lot of time, but I ordered two burgers. If I come back, I would probably try to sit at the bar, because it seemed like the people at the bar got their food quicker: Two different parties came in after us and got served their food before we, who were sitting at a table, did. I'll end with this: the tater tots are great and cooked perfectly. Crispy and golden, yet soft inside. I could eat a basket of those by themselves.

My wife and I had lunch here yesterday. We each ordered a double cheeseburger. She had onion rings; I had fries. The burgers here are very good "smashburgers" but I wouldn't say that it was the best burger I've ever had. The beer battered onion rings were delicious but the fries were just average. Service was very good but the overall appearance of the restaurant is dated. NOTE: If you plan on stopping here...bring cash...credit cards are not accepted. 3 1/2 stars.

I've been coming here for years and never disappoints. Love a family owned classic hole in the wall/old school diner vibe. No kids allowed and beer in chilled chalices - what more could you ask for?!?!? Got the usual cheese burger and onion rings with a beer. Service was great per usual and the food was typical burger and side without trying to come off fancy. The onion rings were fresh and crispy! Burger is a smash burger with fresh toppings and bun. Just remember CASH only!

A great old-fashioned how in the wall kind of place on the near Westside of downtown Indy. Burgers and food are simple but well made! Service is comfortable, efficient and friendly but respectable. And environment is classic Hoosier--blue-collar no-frills but high-value and from the heart! A great place with lots of history and stories to tell all day long!

This place checked every box, great food, great service and a cool vibe. I can't wait for my work schedule to line up and I get to return.

Indy, I was definitely put in my place during my visit to Workingman's Friend. I'm embarrassed to confess that it is the year 2023 and I finally visited Workingman's Friend for the first time after living in Indy for 14+ years. I thought I'd be able to call ahead to place my order (wrong - no one answers the phones... they're busy enough as it is). I made the trek to grab some cash - ya know, because they're cash only and old school in the best of ways. I thought, alright alright, I'll hustle over there between meetings and grab a quick carry out burger - wrong again. "That will be 45 minutes". Shit...it looks like I'll be taking my next call from the parking lot because I'm not leaving here without a burger... ya know, now that I have cash and all... All this to say - yep, they're totally still popular and 110% still an Indy staple. I'm just really late to the party. I ordered a smashburger with all the fixings and an order of onion rings. I waited in my car for 45 minutes while Workingman's Friend was BUSTLING the entire time -not a table or spot at the bar to be found. I finally got home with my carryout order and it was quite delicious. Greasy and delicious as one would expect from a cash-only, old school spot like Workingman's Friend. I've officially made the pilgrimage and look forward to future visits and alloting the appropriate amount of time to do so.

I got the Big John Special and it was delicious! I personally loaded it up with the chips, slaw, and pickles and would recommend you try it. The place wasn't the cleanest even well after their lunch rush. The service was good but a little hostile. In my opinion I would do takeout only.

Every few weeks, my husband gets in his head that he needs a burger from here and he will not be put at ease until we make the trip to Workingman's friend. It's sort of located in the middle of nowhere, but so worth the trip because the smash burgers are insane. Easily our favorite smash burgers in Indy in the cutest lil retro diner. Their fries are really well seasoned and the fried mushrooms are a fav of ours. Fast service and fun environment. Worth the stop hands down!

We've had this on our list for awhile since it's been voted Indy's best burger multiple times. I had a weekday off for vacation so my family and I stopped in. We got there right at opening time and the parking lot was already nearly full. By the time we left, every table was full and folks were parking up and down the street. It was definitely busy, partly because of the tv attention they told us but I got the impression they have a lot of regulars. You seat yourself and there's no menus, the menu is posted above the bar with another large menu highlighting their top sellers. Our server was friendly and I loved that she asked if we had been there before and when we said no, she explained to us about the menus and made sure we knew it was cash only. We all had burgers and they were good. I'm not a huge burger fan overall but of course I wanted to try the highlight of this Indy landmark. The smashed burgers were cooked well and you could tell it was fresh. The onion rings were good too. The sodas are served in cans with a glass of ice. But it seemed like most people were ordering the giant beers they serve. Overall it was a good experience but there was a situation toward the end where one of the staff was getting into it with a customer about where he had parked. I don't know the dynamic, he could've been a regular, but it was awkward for the rest of the customers. By that time we were just ready to leave but had trouble flagging down our server to pay since they were really busy by then. Clearly they know the secret to success since they've been in business for 100+ years.

Went Friday for lunch and they did it again. Still the best smash burger around if you ask me. I get that and the onion rings and I can never finish it. The food always comes out fast and the service is great. My favorite hole in the wall by far. Cash only and 21 and up

TL;DR: It's just alright. Things to know: 1. Cash only and 21+ business 2. Known for their Cheeseburger (They are on the dry side, but not terrible)  3. Small portion of fries for the price 4. Don't come during lunch time rush (noon - 1:30 pm), it gets crowded and you'll have to wait about 40 min. for food.

Waitress was excellent. Very friendly and informative. Cash only business and nearest ATM is about a block away. Not much of an ambiance but food was quick and about what you expect. Price was a bit high for what you get but not so much so.

brought our 19 year old son there to eat from Bloomington and they wouldn't allow him to have a burger and a pop. they close at 2:45 in the afternoon. Their website doesn't indicate you have to be 21 years old to enter. Bad business for a burger place that closes at 2:45 pm .

I've found that hole in the wall places often times have the best food. This place is no exception. There is a reason that this old-fashioned blue-collared restaurant has the hype it does. This place knows how to do smash burgers, onion rings, fries, you name it. I tried the big double cheeseburger with LTOP and Onion rings as well as their fried mushrooms. Everything was so good. The cheese burger was huge and hearty. It was savory and tasted very fresh. Their onion rings were crispy and the batter was just right. The mushrooms were also pretty great. I also had a brewski that was served in a goblet which was cool. I feel fortunate to have been able to try this place as the food was delicious and transported me to a different era. There are not many places like this left and it is definitely a gem. Side Note: This is technically a tavern so it is 21+

One of the best burgers in the city. Hands down. Love the crispy "meat candy" edges. Don't forget to bring cash!

Finally! We've been wanting to Working Man's Friend for a long time and it did not disappoint. The bloody Mary was good but the double cheeseburger was amazing. It's a smash burger with the bun in the center similar to a Big Mac. The burger will come dressed to order. Ketchup and mustard will be on the table. One of us had a fried fish sandwich that he said was just okay. His onion rings looked delicious! My fries were just okay. I'd just get a double cheeseburger without a side next time. There is a parking lot and the restaurant is long. The bar runs the length of the restaurant and has lots of seating. The menu is on the wall. You'll seat yourself and a server will get your order. You'll pay at the table, but know that it's cash only. We had excellent service and delicious burgers. They were definitely deserving of the best burger in Indy award! I might have voted for them prematurely based on my husband's recommendation.

The undisputed best smash burger in the world. The Workingman's Friend got its name because they'd let outta work fellas during the Great Depression run tabs until they were working again. The same family - four generations later - still runs the Friend with the same spirit of warm hospitality. But listen CASH ONLY, CLOSES EARLY. Don't mess around. The burger: crisp, lacy edges. Rich, juicy beef cooked just under well. American cheese - the only cheese that belongs on a smash burg. Crisp, fresh toppings and a glossy bun with the perfect amount of chew. Get a goblet of Bud and experience the paradigm of all burgers.

If you are in Indianapolis and want to know the place where the locals go for a really good burger..... this is the place! Not much to look at on the outside but the food more than makes up for it. Menus are on the wall. They have more than burgers, like a pork cutlet sandwich. Burgers are smash burgers so a single or double are offered. The fries are crispy, feel like they are double fried! Onion Rings are beer battered. They were my least favorite. This is a cash only establishment. While the parking lot and street were full there was still plenty of tables to sit down at, seat yourself! The owner is a gem! This was our second trip there and will likely be back when we are back in Indy in June!

Great food and very nice servers. Lots of people in suits, police officers and others eating. All the food looked amazing. Beware CASH ONLY

For me, Workingman's Friend is a great old skool environment. The service has consistently been good and for the price the food is good. I know some people won't like the cash only approach they use but for me I consider it to be a part of the experience.

I got here at 11 am, and there were several people waiting for them to open. I got the double cheeseburger and onion rings. They have smash burgers, and they are really good, and the onion rings were really good too. The waitress was very friendly and answered all our questions. I want to go try their breaded tenderloin and the chili real soon. By the time we were ready to leave, the place was pretty full. I will probably be going here once a week from now on.

Sat., 1/27 noonish. Busy, busy place, great food and the wait staff - superb. Bartender (ponytail) was overwhelmed and rude as hell. It doesn't hurt to be kind to your fellow man with a simple - I will be right with you, all I wanted was a bag for my take home food. She soured my birthday experience.

There's a reason that this place is a staple of Indianapolis! Everything about it has been frozen in time and is unapologetically simple and delicious. They're known for their smash burgers and I didn't see anyone else get anything different. I primarily eat vegetarian and they did not have a vegetarian option, so be thoughtful about that. Additionally, it is CASH ONLY so come prepared. This place lives up to its name as a workman's friend, no frills just good food and company. Parking can be found in the lot or on the side street, don't be afraid to be creative! Enjoy!

Are you looking for the best burger in town?? Get the double with cheese. But everyone already knows that. And that leads you to skipping the "not so hidden" gem of Workingman's Friend. I'm sorry to say Aristocrat and Broad Ripple Tavern and Fire by the Monon and Tick Tock. But this is the best tenderloin in the city. Juicy tenderloin? Check. Breading with some life to it? Check. THE BUN? Amazing. I always go pickle, onion, and Mayo on the sandwich, and I put some yellow mustard on the parts hanging off the side. This place is awesome. If you want a side get the seasoned fries. Or if you're really hungry add a bowl of chili on the side. Hate to say it but skip the onion rings, not worth the price. BEST TENDERLOIN IN INDY.

It deserves the hype it gets! I got a double cheeseburger and onion rings and would get it again. The cheeseburger was crispy on the edges and really good. You can get toppings to your liking and the burger comes with a side of your choosing. I thought it was a great size. I wish I would have gotten more onion rings but that's me being greedy. If you like pop/soda that comes in a can and you're given a cup with ice. I know that matters to some. The lunch rush is no joke so plan accordingly. We parked in the grass it was so packed. They only accept cash as well and I did not see an atm at the restaurant. You also have to be at least 21 to enter.

This is an institution! The burgers are delicious! The beef on the burger has the little crispy bits on the edges that you only get from a well seasoned grill. The fries! The fries! Piping hot russet potatoes with a slight crunch. Decor is original down to the floors. I don't get over there much, but every time I walk in there it reminded me of a restaurant in Louisville, where my dad to me when we would meet him downtown for lunch. The waitress was friendly and prompt to take our order. The only thing that kept this from a five star rating, was that it took forever to get our check and change. I can't sleep so I am writing this review now. And now my stomach is growling wanting another burger!

No nonsense burger joint. Menu is written on the wall, beer is in giant challis cups, and people are there drinking at 11 am Saturday. I just got a burger and was stuffed. People in my group got fries and onion rings which they said were fantastic, but I had plenty to eat without a side. Street parking or a gravel lot in the back, people really just seemed to make their own rules with that. Service was friendly, simple, and efficient. Also cash only!!

CASH ONLY. BUT TOTALLLLY WORTH IT!!! Old timey diner. Small menu, only two beers on tap but a full bar if you need it. Watch the hours. Be prepared for a bit (~15 minutes max) if you come between typical "lunch hours" (11:30-1). It is totally worth it and if you're nice and tell your server you're in a hurry they can usually accommodate if you're not a jerk on in a huge group. This place is 100% worth it.

A historic place that is no frills and blue collar at its core. It's not on Mass Ave or Fountain Square nor does it even takes credit cards, but perhaps that is part of its charm. I went early on a Tuesday and service was quick. There was plenty of space throughout the dining and bar area. The menu is clear on a vintage sign but the highlights are written with a window marker next to the kitchen. The smashed double cheeseburger was simple yet flavorful, no fancy accompaniments or sauces necessary. The accompanying onion rings were fresh with a nicely adhering batter. Again, it's cash only and there aren't a lot of easy places nearby to get cash if you aren't prepared. However, if you are making the journey from downtown or wherever to get to this place, you probably have done your research or heard about this amazing place.

Before I get started, this place is CASH only. They also do not have an ATM on site so, BYOC. I had to go to the nearby gas station on the corner and use their ATM. Now that I got that out of the way, this is a down home, mom and pop, old school diner. They knew a lot of the patrons by name. They have a moderate sized private parking lot, a large dining area, and bar seating. Kids are not allowed in the restaurant. It is a 21 and over establishment, as per the sign on the door. They have a full bar and serve alcohol. They have a very efficient ( limited) menu consisting of burgers, Reubens, onion rings, cheese sticks, fries, chilli and tenderloin. They are known for their burgers though, so that is what I went with. I got a double cheese burger with fries. It was made fresh and took about 8 minutes or so to hit my table. The burger was very flavorful and tasted fresh. The fries were hot. I got the seasoned type, but there was not much seasoning that I could taste. They were still good though. The staff there was very friendly and welcoming. They kept stopping by checking in on me and making sure that everything was good. I normally am put off by cash only places, but this restaurant gets a pass because of their food and good service. I hope that one day though, that they at least get an ATM so that people like me don't have to run to the sketchy gas station on the corner to get cash.

I don't understand the hype for this to be the 'best burger in Indy'. It was a good burger, sure. Honestly the whole thing was dry. I even asked for no center bun after reading some of the other reviews when ordering the double cheeseburger. Fries were nothing special either. I also thought the price would have been less with the name and all. Overall, a little disappointed.

Can't go wrong with the double cheeseburger; a proper smash burger perfected. Service is prompt and definitely a place you can eat solo and run off to errands. Great little diner feel and prices are solid all things considered.

Burgers and tots are absolutely worth venturing out from downtown for. They largest glass of beer I can remember. Friendly servers and there is plenty of seating.

First time at Workingman's Friend and I have to say the staff and owner were super friendly and the Huge Double Cheeseburger was AMAZING....one of the best burgers we have ever had. We were visiting from Tampa Bay, FL for the Indy 500 and so glad we gave this spot a try and when in Indy again will be back! I love a good hole in the wall and this place was old, off the beaten path but that is honestly part of its charm. Although old and outdated ot was very clean including the restroom.

Love their double cheese burger and Chile. Highly recommend their Smash Burger and great service

Best. Burger. In. Indy. The rumors are true. I kept hearing this whole in the wall, local restaurant was the best burger. I finally caved and tried it. Get the double with cheese and fries, you won't regret it. The burgers are thin patties, with the perfect amount of seasoning and grease. They ask what all you want on it. They even put a thin bun between the two burger patties. More carbs? Yes please!!This place is cash only, so go to the ATM beforehand. Run, don't walk here!!!

If you're into the smash burger craze, surely you know that it's not a craze at all, it's been around for a very long time and is just the best and most delicious way to make a burger...and the Workingman's Friend is a prime example of exactly how a smash burger should look, taste, and be constructed, and is certainly a must-eat bucket list item. A quick Google search will lead you down the rabbit hole of the Workingman's Friend's fascinating restaurant history - this is truly an Indy classic, being established in the same spot for over 100 years and now owned and run by the original owner's granddaughter. Walking inside you'll feel like you've been transported back in time in the best way possible. It's not just the longevity of the restaurant that makes it special, though, it's how committed they are to the freshness, deliciousness, and traditional recipes and techniques they use to craft their food. They have made every effort to keep the menu and the food essentially unchanged - because if it's not broken, don't fix it!! Obviously their double cheeseburger has a following in certain circles, but they also offer some delicious chili (that I want to slather all over a hot dog), a fish sandwich, a traditional Indiana tenderloin sandwich, and some damn delicious homemade cole slaw too. We will be back to try more items out, but at our inaugural visit I elected to try their double cheeseburger - it's served with American cheese and the edges are smashed into a caramelized crispy oblivion that cannot be beat. Their grill has 80 years of seasoning built into it, trust me, you cannot replicate this smash burger at home. We also tried the french fries (delicious and perfectly cooked, crisp outside fluffy inside) a bowl of chili (meat and beans, not too spicy, and so flavorful) and a side of cole slaw (reminiscent of KFC-creamy-sweetness, but better because you can tell it's home made) ... oh, and don't forget a schooner of Bud or Bud Light - I'm a big fan of beer that requires two hands to drink - but, if you're ok with a bottle or can, they have plenty of local craft beer options!