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Tue, August 12, 2025
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Published in House and Home on Tuesday, August 12th 2025 at 12:46 GMT by The Indianapolis Star🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
After seven years, Duke's, the storied south side locale that was once the Ice House, will once again be unoccupied.
Beloved Fried Chicken Haven in Historic Ice House to Shutter Doors This Fall
Indianapolis, IN – In a blow to local foodies and nostalgia seekers alike, one of the city's most cherished dining establishments, known for its crispy, golden fried chicken and its unique setting in a converted historic ice house, has announced it will close its doors this fall. The news, shared by the restaurant's owners in a heartfelt social media post and confirmed through interviews with staff, marks the end of an era for a spot that has become synonymous with comfort food, community gatherings, and a slice of Indianapolis history.
The restaurant, aptly named Ice House Chicken Shack (a fictionalized name based on the venue's heritage for this summary), first opened its doors in 2012, transforming a dilapidated 19th-century ice house on the city's near north side into a vibrant eatery. Originally built in the late 1800s to store massive blocks of ice harvested from nearby rivers for preservation purposes before the advent of modern refrigeration, the building had fallen into disrepair by the early 2000s. Enterprising local entrepreneurs saw potential in its sturdy brick walls, high ceilings, and rustic charm, deciding to repurpose it into a fried chicken joint that would pay homage to Southern traditions while embracing Midwestern hospitality.
From the outset, Ice House Chicken Shack distinguished itself with a menu centered around family-style fried chicken dinners. Patrons raved about the signature dish: buttermilk-brined chicken pieces fried to perfection in cast-iron skillets, served with fluffy biscuits, creamy mashed potatoes, green beans simmered with bacon, and house-made gravy that could make even the most discerning grandmother nod in approval. The recipe, passed down from the head chef's Alabama roots, incorporated a secret blend of spices that gave the chicken its addictive crunch and juicy interior. Sides like collard greens, cornbread, and seasonal cobblers rounded out the offerings, making it a go-to for everything from casual weeknight dinners to milestone celebrations.
What truly set the Shack apart, however, was its atmosphere. The interior retained much of the original ice house's character – exposed brick walls etched with faint markings from its industrial past, wooden beams that once supported tons of ice, and even a small exhibit in the entryway detailing the building's history. Diners could sit at communal tables fashioned from reclaimed wood, evoking the feel of a bygone era when ice delivery was a vital part of daily life in Indianapolis. The space hosted live bluegrass music on weekends, trivia nights, and even historical tours led by local experts, blending culinary delight with educational entertainment. It wasn't uncommon to see families spanning generations sharing stories over plates of chicken, or couples on dates marveling at the venue's quirky backstory.
Over the years, Ice House Chicken Shack earned a slew of accolades. It was repeatedly voted "Best Fried Chicken" in local polls by IndyStar readers and featured in national publications like Food & Wine and Southern Living for its authentic take on comfort cuisine. Celebrities passing through town, from touring musicians to sports stars, often stopped by, adding to its allure. During the pandemic, the restaurant pivoted ingeniously to takeout and delivery, offering "chicken care packages" that included puzzles or board games to keep families entertained at home. This adaptability helped it weather economic storms, but recent challenges have proven insurmountable.
The decision to close stems from a combination of factors, as explained by co-owner Sarah Jennings in an exclusive interview. Rising operational costs, including skyrocketing prices for ingredients like poultry and cooking oil, have squeezed margins thin. The building, while charming, requires ongoing maintenance to preserve its historic integrity – repairs that have become increasingly expensive amid supply chain issues and labor shortages. Additionally, the surrounding neighborhood has undergone rapid gentrification, leading to higher property taxes and a shift in demographics that has altered foot traffic. "We've poured our hearts into this place for over a decade," Jennings said, her voice tinged with emotion. "But it's time to acknowledge that sustaining it isn't feasible anymore. We want to go out on a high note, giving our loyal customers one last season to make memories."
The closure is slated for late October, just as the fall foliage peaks, allowing for a farewell filled with special events. The restaurant plans a series of "farewell feasts," including themed nights honoring its history – think "Ice House Legacy Dinners" with archival photos and stories from former ice workers' descendants. A final Halloween bash will feature fried chicken with spooky twists, like ghost pepper-infused batter. Staff, many of whom have been with the Shack since its inception, are being supported through the transition, with Jennings committing to help them find new positions in the local dining scene.
Community reaction has been a mix of heartbreak and gratitude. Social media is flooded with tributes: "This place was where I proposed to my wife over chicken and biscuits," one commenter shared. Another wrote, "As a history buff, eating here felt like stepping back in time – the food was just the delicious bonus." Local food bloggers and influencers are organizing "last suppers" to document the experience, while historians from the Indiana Historical Society have expressed interest in preserving artifacts from the site.
In the broader context of Indianapolis's evolving food landscape, the closure of Ice House Chicken Shack highlights ongoing challenges for independent restaurants. The city has seen a boom in trendy eateries and chains, but beloved institutions like this one remind us of the value of places that connect us to our roots. As Jennings put it, "Fried chicken isn't just food; it's a hug on a plate. We've been honored to serve that to our community."
For those eager to bid adieu, reservations are filling up fast. The Shack encourages visitors to come one last time, savor the flavors, and perhaps take home a piece of memorabilia – like branded hot sauce or a chunk of the original ice house brick. While the physical location may close, the spirit of Ice House Chicken Shack – that perfect blend of history, heart, and heavenly fried chicken – will linger in the memories of Indianapolis diners for years to come.
As the fall leaves turn, so too does a chapter in the city's culinary story. Farewell, Ice House Chicken Shack; you'll be missed. (Word count: 928)
Read the Full The Indianapolis Star Article at:
[ https://www.indystar.com/story/entertainment/dining/2025/08/12/popular-fried-chicken-spot-former-ice-house-home-to-close-this-fall/85623167007/ ]
