Pier 48 relocates due to ‘significant challenges’ posed by downtown construction

INDIANAPOLIS — It’s a prime spot for downtown dining, but one seafood restaurant says the construction outside its doors is too much to stomach.

Pier 48 sits in the heart of downtown – across from Gainbridge Fieldhouse, but also major construction at the site of the former CSX building, which they say has been so disruptive, they needed to pack up and move.

The restaurant announced it would move its team and menu into George’s Neighborhood Grill on the northeast side for now, due to “significant challenges” posed by the project and other nearby construction. Beginning this week, customers can enjoy a “curated selection” of Pier 48 menu favorites at George’s and continue to access existing rewards and gift cards.

In a statement, the restaurant said, in part: “The resulting dust and debris have impacted operations and infrastructure, making it difficult to maintain the high standards for which Pier 48 is known. With downtown business particularly slow during Fourth of July week, the team saw this as the optimal time to transition to a more accessible location for valued guests.”

“It’s honestly not surprising at all,” said Savannah Burton, a bartender at “The Pub” next to Pier 48. “I could definitely see other businesses wanting to do that as well.”

Burton says they’ve all been dealing with less foot traffic, closed delivery routes, congestion and little notice before power and water shutoffs.

“With bars like us, we’re open until 3 a.m. If they shut the water off at 2 a.m., you legally can’t operate without running hot water or running water in general,” Burton explained. “It’s a big problem, and then we lose that hour of business.”

When finished, the site will be home to a $300 million hotel, music venue and sky bridge over Pennsylvania Street into Gainbridge Fieldhouse, led by Boxcar Development LLC. Construction will continue through 2027.

“We want Indianapolis to be a heart for people to come and visit and generate tourism income, but at the same time, you need to think about the people that already live here,” Burton added.

Pier 48 called its relocation a “temporary solution.” The statement goes on to say more announcements are coming as it rebuilds on the northwest side.

“Pier 48 employees have been retained and are actively involved in the transition, ensuring that guests will be greeted by familiar faces at George’s,” the statement said. “The team remains committed to delivering the same quality service and fresh flavors that have defined their brand.”