Raise Your Spirits at Central Indiana's Newest Distillery

One of Indy’s most prominent craft beer producers is branching out into the world of friendly spirits. Sun King Spirits, a showy 15,000-square-foot distillery/tasting room/food hall showplace, opened in July. The building cuts a dashing figure along the Monon Trail as it passes through Midtown Carmel.

The distillery’s upper or lower patios should prove to be some of the most coveted seats in town. Interested in other outdoor dining spots in Indiana? Click here.  

Inside, the décor is decidedly sleek and modern (check out the wood pallets hanging from the ceiling over the downstairs bar), creating a contemporary food hall vibe with stations manned by La Margarita, Oca, The Den by Foxgardin and Pi. Customers order at the counters and then receive alerts when their meals are ready.

The cocktail list emphasizes spirits mostly sourced from within a Midwestern radius, and Sun King has even paired up with area producers like 8th Day Distillery, Cardinal Spirits and Hotel Tango Artisan Distillery to turn out some distinctive variations on vodka, rum and gin. Sun King also produces its own spirits, which are incredible.

Be forewarned — the Old, Old Fashioned from the Classics selections packs a mighty wallop with Louisville-based Copper & Kings brandy and Sun King’s own Cra&ftwork Barrel-Aged Brandy. Pace yourself and sip slowly.

Have no fear, beer drinkers. You can still get your pints of Sunlight, Osiris and Pachanga from Sun King taps behind the bar, along with a few wine and bubbly options.

Kids and families are welcome here, although the bar areas remain 21-and-up only. Sun King’s Carmel distillery joins a lineup that also includes the downtown Indianapolis brewery and a Fishers tasting room. Look for Sun King to add another specialty production craft brewery/tap room to the family as Fishers Tap Room & Small-Batch Brewery project takes shape.

For more information, go to sunkingbrewing.com. Cheers!