Perk Up

143 reviews

6536 Cornell Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220

www.perkupindy.com

+13172510033

About

Perk Up is a Cafe located at 6536 Cornell Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220. It has received 143 reviews with an average rating of 4.5 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday8AM-2PM
Tuesday8AM-3PM
Wednesday8AM-2PM
Thursday8AM-2PM
Friday8AM-2PM
Saturday8AM-2PM
Sunday8AM-2PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of Perk Up: 6536 Cornell Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220

  • Perk Up has 4.5 stars from 143 reviews

  • Cafe

  • "I went to the farmers market by Broad Ripple High School all summer long and came to know the fabulous breads and such presented by the Brotgarten"

    "The food was delicious and the coffee was piping hot! Absolutely yummy"

    "So disappointed today"

    "I've been coming here for years"

    "I wanted to love it, but"

Reviews

  • Doris Perino

I went to the farmers market by Broad Ripple High School all summer long and came to know the fabulous breads and such presented by the Brotgarten. Intrigued we went to eat at the Perk up cafe last Saturday expecting something fabulous. Unfortunately it was just barely palpable food with ok service. My son had the ham and cheese sandwich, which was advertised as superb. It was some white bread grill with cheese nothing outstanding, and the (5) shriveled up grapes did nothing to enhance it. I had the Pretzel stick with Bratwurst and sourcraut on the side. The pretzel stick was good and the Bratwurst okay. Again the (5) shriveled grapes to the side added nothing to the dish. My son had Iced Tea and I myself just chose water, the bill bill game to a little under $21.00, which is not bad if it would have been a good lunch but it was not. On another note, there was no fresh bread or the smell thereof in the Restaurant as alluded to on the website. Dogs were inside the Restaurant, and although I love animals, having to climb over dogs to get your food was not so pleasant. All in all it was a total disappointment. I expected exceptional food and was totally and utterly disappointed.

  • Haven Hanna

The food was delicious and the coffee was piping hot! Absolutely yummy. I ordered their mocha latte and their egg sandwich on ciabatta. All of their ingredients were fresh and even the bread alone was exceptional. Also right across the street of the Monon, so that's a perk! Just be aware when you visit that their inside dining room is closed, to which I was told it has been closed since the beginning of the pandemic. We did not know that until we got there and had to sit outside in the heat. The experience was still wonderful, just would've been great to know there's no inside seating beforehand. Overall, it is worth it to visit this cafe and try what they have to offer. We will be back!
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$1–10
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Shot of Espresso, Sandwich
Vegetarian options
They have a good selection of vegetarian options available; both food wise and milk-alternative wise.
Parking options
Free street parking
Parking
Lots of street parking

  • Kendra Wilt

So disappointed today. I was looking forward to trying a new cafe in hip Broad Ripple by the Monon Trail. The cappuccino was the most bitter cappuccino I ever tasted. My friend's Mint Monon tasted like a very basic hot chocolate with absolutely no Mint flavor. The ham & cheese braided bread was weird because it had some kind of red sauce, but worse yet it was greasy. The quiche was okay. I spoke with the barrista to see if we could get more Mint flavor and oat milk to see if it would help the bitterness. He said he'd have to charge me. I then spoke to the owner, who said she never had complaints before, and it was true I'd have to pay for more milik and mint flavor. My hard earned money paid way too much for all this and for the owner not to help make some amends. Will never recommend or go back.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 1
Service: 1

  • Debra Roche

I've been coming here for years. The coffee is, hands down, the best brewed coffee you can get anywhere in B.R. and there are quite a few options. Alice and Jeanette make fresh baked bread sold on Tuesdays, Fridays and I think Saturdays, try the Vital bread, it is the best! They also bake lots of yummy treats that I only allow myself to have on special occasions, but, oh my gosh, YUM. They used to do German pastries on Sunday, don't know if they still do but that was a treat. The egg panini sandwiches are delicious. The inside is inviting and well appointed without trying to hard, the patio is nice and spacious and they love their four legged friends. Curiously, the people who hang out here are particularly friendly, myself included :)

  • Camille Cantwell

I wanted to love it, but.....from the moment I walked in, the staff seemed annoyed and unhelpful. I asked what’s good, and without a smile, she pointed to the board. The more I tried to engage her, the more curt her answers. When asked about the drip coffee, she pointed to the thermoses with coffee. When asked about flavors, she pointed to the syrups on the back wall. No attempt to even try and be friendly. Why would I return? The quiche was good, but overpriced. The latte was nothing special. With so many wonderful coffeehouses, why would I return? Perhaps to hear them bark out coffee drinks as they make them? Or to watch dogs enter and sniff the food? Thanks, but I’ll pass. I so wanted to love this place. So disappointing.

  • Kylie Lockett

Sadly, I cannot give this place any more than one star. I paid over $14 for a piece of bland quiche and small iced tea (menu said it was a large) that tasted so bad that I couldn’t drink it. There was no indoor seating allowed. Only two unclean tables outside available to sit on. I love supporting small business, but if you have the option, you may want to reconsider and pick somewhere else. Unfortunately, I will never go back.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 1
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 1
Recommended dishes
Vegetarian Quiche
Wheelchair accessibility
There is a ramp made of wood that you can get up to the counter.

  • Michael Nugent

simply the best morning cafe patio in broad ripple. the breakfast sandwiches take a minute because they're made to order, but they're so worth it. the dirty hippie is excellent iced, would recommend. always a new variety of excellent baked goods on offer too. wish they'd open the interior again! would be a nice place to spend some time.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Dirty Hippie, Sandwich, Everything Bagel Egg Sandwich
Wheelchair accessibility
ramp up to order window, good curb cut accessibility.

  • Adam Emerson

I used to love coming to this place. They always had fantastic service and I really enjoy their drinks and food. However, I’m not sure what happened, but their service has gone downhill lately. And two of the last three times I’ve gone I found a handwritten note on the window “Back in 20 minutes - 1:50”. Which is really strange considering they close at 2:00. I wasn’t going to stand around and wait 15-20 minutes for coffee when there are so many other places within walking distance. I hope this is only a temporary funk they’re going through and that they are a good place to go again once the pandemic is over.

  • Jenny Cozad

What a cute little coffee shop along the monon. I chose this place as it was in the middle of where myself and my coffee date lived. It did not disappoint. Perk Up featured a great coffee menu along with tasty compliments like cakes and pastries. I enjoyed a simple latte made on their coffee maker that looked straight out of Europe. My friend had the dirty hippie which was also satisfying. I also loved that it seemed to be a place where regulars conjugate for their morning get togethers creating a fun ambiance. For a switch up to the normal coffee shop vibe, try Perk Up.

  • Ally Bright

Yana gave us great service and was very kind and helpful! We both loved the coffees we ordered and loved getting to sit in their outdoor area to drink it. Their indoor area is closed and yana said they don’t have a date set for it opening. We loved the muffin and breakfast sandwhich we got as well. They have great specialty coffees to try. We each got 2! It was nice being so close to the monon as well.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$1–10

  • Katherine Mayerovitch

This place is incredibly cozy inside, and the coffee is fantastic. The only problem with this place is that I wish it were open later. But it's a good sign when the only negative about a place is that you literally can't get enough of it. Non-dairy milk available, so vegans and the lactose-intolerant crowd can get their fancy drinks. And it's right off the Monon trail if that caffeine buzz inspires you to get moving. Really lovely overall.

  • Robino G.

Great tasting German breads and cake on weekends... perhaps the best in Indy in this category. The Broetchen are excellent when available. Call ahead to see what will be available for the weekend, or--better yet--get on their mailing list to make sure you are always informed.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Other
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 3
Recommended dishes
German Pastries, Brotgarten Cake

  • Jennifer

Perk Up is a lovely traditional coffee house. Their espresso is top notch. The vegetarian quiche was also yummy. I prefer frappuccinos/blended coffee so, this is not a place I'd frequent. (They only have iced coffee.) But the walk up service, deck, and ambience are all great.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$20–30
Recommended dishes
Vegetarian options
Some vegetarian options.

  • Tedd Johnson

Is there a reason you refuse to serve customers without a mask outside? You offer service from a window and can remain safely distant from your customers. The mask rule does not require people who are outside and able to socially distance to wear one. It seems surprising to me that a restaurant in Broad Ripple would create more barriers and oppressive policies when so many are having to completely go out of business.

  • Kathy Mccullough

Fantastic place! White Knight (with oat milk) is my favorite breakfast drink in Indy! Sandwiches are super too. SUCH nice baristas working there (and try the biscotti too!) Dog friendly and so convenient to the Monon. I'm usually there once a week and have never had a bad drink/food item.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$1–10
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Jack Marvel

Decent place. Nothing too special or different. Never going back though! because the food was in plastic, plastic straws, and styrofoam. In order to stay in business you need to evolve with the times and use all biodegradable stuff. People will pay for it because it's worth it! Especially when I can just go right next door and get better food, with better service, that's also environmentally friendly!

  • Russell Long

Was in the area and got a hot mocha with oat milk. The batista was great, and helped me through their take out window. The mocha was one of the best mochas I've had in a while, I was planning on drinking it as I was driving back home, but it had no chance it was that good, and it was not scoldingly hot. Felt comfortable and everyone had their masks on.

  • Amela Vejzovic

Espresso is sub par, I asked for a quad shot of espresso and all they could do is an americano so I said, “that’s fine, could I add oat milk and a Splenda.” They said sure. Once I got my iced americano, there was no oat milk and they didn’t even have Splenda so my coffee ended up being nothing but bitter. I threw it out. Will not be coming back.

  • Chelsi Joiner

While Perk Up may not be located near you, it is worth the drive! My boyfriend and I have been lucky enough to meet Tino, this amazing and kind young man, which has never steered us wrong when recommending drinks and food to us! I am grateful that we found this place and were able to meet such divine humans on this path in life.

  • Stupid Cool

I assumed my life was as spectacular as it could be, but when I first came upon this small and charming yet elegant establishment, I realized how much I was missing. I have fallen in love with the genuine care and cozy atmosphere of the restaurant. I will definitely be dining at Dunkin doughnuts again.

  • Brian Benko

Thanks to the Broad Ripple Hotel I was introduced to Perk Up. They are one of the few places that makes Matcha Green tea with a Matcha Whisk. They have great bagels and their coffee is also delicious. Great staff and a lovely owner. Thank you for my morning Matcha Green Tea when I am away from home!

  • Corey Trojanowski

I was in broad ripple for some work needing to find a quick coffee place and glad I found perk up. You walk up and order at the window and they have a good menu to choose from. I got a dirty hippie and really enjoyed it. I'll remember to come back here the next time I'm in the area. More

  • Sonja Garnett

Excellent service! I got the Dirty Hippy iced coffee with Almond milk and Vegetarian Quiche- delicious! Cute local spot with lots of food options as well. A little pricey but worth it to support local.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$10–20

  • Dajana Montalvo

If you haven't been to Perk Up for their Sunday Cakes, you are missing out. All of their cakes, breads, rolls cookies are in house made. Nothing is mass produced and is hand crafted. They also sell their items on the Broad ripple Farmers Market.

  • Heidi Haverkamp

Sublime egg sandwiches, some of the best quiche around, and ham-and-cheese bread is to die for. Great coffee. Takes a while, but worth the wait - every bit of it.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$1–10

  • Abel emmalee Carr

I've been twice. I want to love it. The staff is always acting bothered if you have questions. Not friendly or welcoming. The shop itself is adorable. Overpriced maybe and very very little selection, but great ambiance.

  • Jay Rickard

You will be sadly disappointed if you come here wanting to sit anywhere at all. Also you should probably hope before hand that your batista will be in a good mood.
Food: 3
Service: 2
Atmosphere: 2

  • Erica

Coffee drinks and breakfast sandwiches
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Sandwich

  • Nick Ostendorf

This is a great spot in broad ripple, and my go-to for coffee in the area. My favorite item is the Matcha, but try their specialty drinks too! I need to try the bread they make on Saturdays. More

  • McElroy 360 Design

Perk Up is one of a kind. Very good food and coffee, with a homey atmosphere, and you can bring your dog! Great place to spend a Saturday morning with friends. Total laid back Broad Ripple vibe.

  • Megan Klotz

I got an iced white chocolate mocha from this little coffee shop right off the monon trail and it was sooo good! The guy working was super friendly, and the swirly bendy straw topped it off.

  • Heather Hodson

Quaint coffee shop in Broadripple. Good service and great coffee. Try the Dirty Hippy (chai tea with an espresso shot)! Add $1 for non-dairy milk, and don't forget to grab a rewards card.

  • Michael Burk

The coffee is above average, some roasts they have are better than others. Their food is pretty good. It's a nice, out of the way, quiet place to study or work if you need to.

  • Jake Carr

Perfect little village shop with a walk up window. Their coffee is fantastic and in my opinion, better than Starbucks. If you want a delicious, local coffee, go here.

  • Mike Hotel

I really really wanted to love this but it was just okay. The cake we got was a little pricey and dry. Staff was indifferent and slow. Sad because I saw potential.

  • Alicia

Got the white knight, it was delicious! Hubby got the dirty hippie and he liked it.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$1–10

  • Krescendo

Outstanding. The barista, Corbin, went out of his way to make sure my drink was perfect. It's quiet and cozy inside. This place is a hidden gem.

  • Lisa Hale

This charming cafe is such a wonderful find in Broad Ripple. Friendly, knowledgable staff, great coffee, and the french toast is to die for.

  • Alex Darnall

Dining area not open but I’m not kidding this was the best latte I’ve ever had
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 3

  • Yasemin Fritchman

My favorite coffee shop in Indy. I enjoy delicious espresso every time I stop by. I also like having breakfast and German desserts.

  • Tatyana Fedorikhina

Lovely barista made me a cappuccino. The apricot pastry was nice also. They only have the takeout window open. They open at 7 a.m.

  • Lillian Cardwell

Wonderful little place on the monon. Their German pastries are fabulous!!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Ralph Boleslavsky

Very tasty breakfast sandwiches. The dude who was working seemed to be hungover, but great customer service nevertheless!

  • Sherri Collison

Great coffee. Love their chai mix and great atmosphere for chatting with a friend or finding some quiet time to yourself.

  • Christina Garten

Great location. Morning business meeting, followed by a walk on the Monon. Try the cheesecake!

  • Lillian Cardwell

Amazing little coffee shop on the monon!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Chris Tyler

So cute and delicious plus they have baggies of kid friendly snacks to keep everyone happy

  • Stephanie Fenton

Love coming in here! They're always willing to go above and beyond for their customers:)

  • Sara DiLandro

Breakfast sandwiches were delicious! Freshly cooked eggs on bagels made in store.

  • Zac Bow

The Miel iced drinks are very good and the twirly straws are a nice touch

  • Noel Howell

Great drinks reasonably priced. Awesome walk up window for to go coffee.

  • Brian Stage

Great coffee, laid back environment, great location right on the Monon.

  • Vegan Trucker

Horrible, discriminatory service. Don't support this nasty place.

  • tim footman

Cozy coffee house in broad ripple, a lovely place, please visit.

  • Mary W

Great food, great people, great location and charming!

  • Iccir Rellim

Awesome friendly professional Helpful courteous staff

  • Carla Garza

Great coffee and a safe option for covid purposes

  • Caleb Parker

Yana. Great kid, great coffee. Will be returning

  • Steven Bartlett

Food was very good food there I love it so much

  • Giles Hoyt

Great German style tortes and good coffee.

  • Laura Fogel

Best bakery and coffee in Indianapolis!

  • Christopher Habig

Get the dirty hippie. It's amazing.

  • Michael Naish Jr

Excellent coffe. Try the Ugandan...

  • Matt Litten

Great place for four legged friend

  • Jessie Browne-Michaels

Kinda feels like grandma's kitchen

  • A Hodges

Friendly service, delicious coffee

  • Ross Bunnell

Poor service. No public restroom.

  • Anita Woods

Friendly staff, great chai drinks

  • Amandine Pohardy

Very good coffees, nice people.

  • Thomas Fischer

Pastries and sandwiches. Excel!

  • Kevin Schultz

Always a Great experience

  • Lynne Alexander

Cozy, quaint, and yummy!

  • Audra McClelland

Great spot tucked away.

  • Michael Goetz

Yana come to practice

  • Thane McMartin

Quaint coffee shop.

  • Susan Maas

Amazing …

  • AJ “Voice Attempter” Jones

Best staff around

  • Christina Marcolini

Cozy and friendly

  • Michelle W

Good sandwiches!

  • Brian Johnson

Great place.

  • Rodolfo Placido

j0

  • Dinakar Mokshagundam
  • Michael Lupinacci
  • Andrew Hendricks
  • Rhiannon Terpstra
  • Steve Neterval
  • Isaiah Tooley
  • Jeff Crawford
  • Fabio Gomèz
  • Amy King
  • Michael Iafrato
  • Foster Smith
  • David Llewellyn
  • June Rami
  • Tohav Harris
  • Ron Wyckoff
  • Caleb Drake
  • Tania Bales
  • Ken Campbell
  • Amy R

Similar places

Another Broken Egg Cafe

1554 reviews

9435 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46260

Rock-Cola 50's Cafe

1141 reviews

5730 S Brookville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46219

Panera Bread

973 reviews

9145 E 56th St, Indianapolis, IN 46216

Cafe Patachou

942 reviews

4901 N Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis, IN 46205

The Egyptian

753 reviews

6220 Carrollton Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220

Cafe Patachou

738 reviews

8697 River Crossing Blvd, Indianapolis, IN 46240

Ruth's Cafe

728 reviews

3443 E 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46240

Fresco Italian Cafe on the Canal

632 reviews

340 W Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN 46202

Neidhammer Coffee Co.

598 reviews

2104 E Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46201

Havana Cafe

428 reviews

3839 Moller Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46254