Best in Indianapolis, IN

Delicious Food Is Waiting For You

Bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and unforgettable meals made just the way you like them. Whether you’re craving BBQ classics or something new, your next favorite dish is here.
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Crafting Culinary Experiences

Welcome to What's The Rub

At What’s The Rub, we believe food is more than fuel—it’s an experience. Every dish that leaves our kitchen is crafted with care, using fresh ingredients and time-honored techniques that bring out bold, unforgettable flavors.


Our culinary team is driven by passion and precision, ensuring each plate is made to order and bursting with quality. From the first bite to the last, you’ll taste the difference that dedication makes. Whether you’re craving our signature classics or exploring our innovative specials, every meal is designed to delight your senses and leave a lasting impression.


We’re not just serving food—we’re creating moments worth savoring. So pull up a chair, relax, and let us take you on a flavor journey that goes beyond the ordinary.

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Brisket bind
Brisket Melt

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Explore Our Culinary Creations
Delight your palate with our exquisite selection of dishes crafted with fresh ingredients and made to order. From timeless classics to innovative creations, each meal at What’s The Rub is a celebration of flavor and quality. Embark on a culinary journey like no other and savor the taste of excellence with every bite.

Explore Our BBQ Creations

Savor authentic smoked BBQ crafted with care at What's The Rub. From tender brisket and fall-off-the-bone ribs to our signature smash burgers, every dish is made with quality ingredients and smoked to perfection. Experience real BBQ flavor in every bite.

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Smash Burgers & Sandwiches

Sink your teeth into our handcrafted smash burgers. Try the loaded Brisket Smash Burger with crispy onions and cheddar, or keep it classic with our Smash Burger. Craving something different? Our Pulled Pork Sandwich and Brisket Melt deliver bold BBQ flavor in every bite. All burgers and sandwiches come with one small side.

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Smoked Meats

Experience our slow-smoked meats available by the quarter, half, or full pound. Choose from tender Sliced Brisket, juicy Pulled Pork, Pulled Chicken, or our Spicy Andouille and Mild Kielbasa Sausages. Our ribs are available as half or full rack - smoked low and slow until they're fall-off-the-bone tender.

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Build Your Own Platter

Create your perfect BBQ feast. Pick your favorite meats and pair them with our homestyle sides. Start with 1 meat and 1 side, or go big with our Family Platter featuring 5 meats and 3 large sides - perfect for sharing.

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Homestyle Sides

Complete your meal with our scratch-made sides. Choose from Corn Casserole, Mac + Cheese, Baked Beans, Green Beans, Potato Salad, Coleslaw, or Waffle Fries. Available in small or large portions.

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They All Love Our Food

Don’t just take our word for it—hear what our guests have to say. From first-timers to loyal regulars, people keep coming back for the bold flavors, warm hospitality, and unforgettable meals that make What’s The Rub special.
I had a tenderloin from What's The Rub the other night and it was the best Tenderloin I've ever had in my life! The managers Taylor and Jerry were both very kind and informative, and the service was fast even though they were a bit busy! I highly recommend eating here! Between the amazing food and wonderful service I will definitely be coming back on a regular basis!
Dianna Kennedy
Dianna Kennedy
Cool little place next to the park and pool. Tenderloin was excellent. It was meaty inside. It was a beautiful day, so we sat outside on the picnic table. Looks like you could also set in your car and order. They had a menu and speaker at each parking spot...
Randy Mikesell
Randy Mikesell
Loved this place!!!! Food was great and the service was fast. Very friendly employees. We sat outside at the picnic tables but you could also sit in your car. (They have menus and speakers at each parking spot to order from--kind of like the old TV show Happy Days.) You could also sit inside but there is not a lot of room. They have a metal counter along the wall with stools. We decided to sit outside at the tables since the weather was nice. Highly recommend this quaint little restaurant. 🙂
Amy Sons
Amy Sons
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Temporarily Closed Due to Fire

Last night, What’s The Rub experienced a fire at our location. Thankfully, everyone is safe, but we will be temporarily closed as we assess the damage and begin repairs.
We’re deeply grateful for the support and understanding of our community during this time. Our team is already working hard to get back to serving you as soon as possible. Please stay tuned for updates on our reopening.
Thank you for your patience and kindness — we can’t wait to welcome you back soon.