My favorite color is sparkles. My second favorite color is pink. When I saw the gorgeous photos of Baby’s Diner on Talbott Street, I just knew I was going to like this place. They say you should never judge a book by it’s cover, but I’ve never listened to anything anyone says and it’s paid off so far. Baby’s is exactly what it appears to be on the cover – fun, flirty, warm and pink.
Baby’s Diner on Talbott
What used to be a LGBTQ nightclub and bar, best known for its drag shows and acceptance of all, is now a 50’s diner style restaurant. Baby’s is also known for it’s acceptance of all and all-ages drag show brunches. Baby’s was created to respect the history of the space and to create new memories for adults and families.
The decor of Baby’s is what stands out the most. It’s a gorgeous space (if you like pink and glitter) that reminds me of a cross between a Barbie Dream House and an IKEA. There are pink vinyl chairs, glitter bar-tops, neon lights, cheery yellow chandeliers and wall murals. It’s the closest thing I can find to one of my favorite spots in Orange County, California, the Hello Kitty Grand Cafe.
Baby’s is in a position to be a beautiful centerpiece for this neighborhood, a meet-up space and modern day community center for all. They’ve played host to a fun schedule of events, like Ugly Sweater parties and make and take Valentine’s crafts
Food at Baby’s
The menu is full of delicious options from broasted chicken (yum) to hamburgers. There are even a respectable number of vegan entrees and sides available. During our visit, my daughter and I dined with another mother-daughter duo and learned all about smashed burgers. Smashed burgers are simply ground beef patties smashed down into the skillet, cooked until crispy and then flipped. I didn’t know they had a name, I’ve always just called them Steak n Shake style burgers.
Get the white barbecue sauce to dip your fries in. Trust me.
Children’s Menu at Baby’s Diner
Kids are welcome to order off of the regular menu, but for those with smaller appetites, you might consider the single patty smash burger or the famous Baby’s broasted chicken drumsticks. You’ll also see the typical mac & cheese and naked tenders on the menu. Sides include: veggies & dip, french fries (vegan), apple slices and corn bread. My nine year old daughter would tell you to get the corn bread.
Family Friendly Baby’s
The owners and staff at Baby’s have been very clear from the start that they want to be a space where everyone is welcome, children included. They have changing tables in the bathrooms, coloring sheets for kids, a children’s menu, high chairs and a super fun, super modern outdoor play space for kids to climb and run. You’ll also find corn hole and other yard games out here. Cathy tells us that the tables are magnetic and they have Magna tiles for your kids to use! When a member of the wait staff brought the magnetic tiles to her table, she was so happy, and then had a peaceful happy kiddo during the meal.
In addition to being kid-friendly, the outdoor patio at Baby’s is fur-baby friendly too, that’s right, Baby’s patio is pet-friendly. Family is family.
The Baby’s Boozy Milkshakes
Baby’s has quickly become famous for their rich, flavorful milkshakes. In addition to the popular strawberry, vanilla and chocolate, there’s a seasonal flavor to try. Snickerdoodle was on the menu during our visit but I’ve heard a lot about the Peanut Butter Chocolate shake. For an extra fee, you can turn that milkshake in to a BOOZY MILKSHAKE. Yes please, because then I don’t have to share! We’re going to have to add Baby’s to our list of the best milkshakes in Indy!
Baby’s Hours
Baby’s is open Monday – Sunday, 11 am to 9 pm. After 9pm on Wednesdays through Saturdays, the restaurant is 21+ and offers karaoke.
Baby’s Address, Location & Parking
Baby’s is located in the Herron-Morton neighborhood on the corner of Talbott and 22nd. Metered street parking is available in front of and near Baby’s. A lot of free parking is provided in the parking lot across the street.