Bar Ellis

“Be” Our Guest: Bar Ellis Serves up Family, Fun, and a
Whole Lot of Flavor to Noblesville
by Ariane R. Haile

Noblesville’s downtown square has a new hotspot, and it’s more than just a bar—it’s a family legacy, a culinary experience, and a gathering place wrapped into one. bar ellis isn’t just about serving drinks; it’s about serving up stories, memories, and, of course, a slice of their legendary wedding cake.

At first glance, the name bar ellis is sleek and simple. But peel back the layers, and you’ll find its roots in family. Co-owners Lisa Wampler and Chamron Brown named the bar after Lisa’s role as Chamron’s “little sis”—phonetically spelling out L.S. to create “Ellis.” The name stuck, and with it, an entire branding theme that plays on their signature “be” motif: Be Free. Be Sweet. Be Here.

Be Inspired: The Story Behind the Bar

Lisa and Chamron aren’t newcomers to the restaurant scene. With backgrounds at Cicero’s beloved 10 West, they, along with Lisa’s husband and Executive Chef Bill, decided to embark on a new venture—this time, one that was fully their own. They didn’t originally set out to open a spot on the Noblesville square, but when the opportunity presented itself, they couldn’t resist.

And it’s not just any space—it’s one with deep Noblesville history. Their building, dating back to 1869, was transformed with the help of local developers and the City of Noblesville, turning what was once an overlooked space into a stunning restaurant and rooftop bar. The city even allowed them to build a new staircase into the alley and add seasonal alley seating  to help bring their vision to life.

Be Hungry: A Menu with Meaning

The menu at bar ellis is a mix of elevated comfort food and nostalgic favorites. Many dishes carry family ties, like Chef Bill’s chicken and noodles, inspired by his mother’s original recipe. But if there’s one thing you absolutely must try, it’s the wedding cake.

This isn’t just any cake—it’s Chamron’s actual wedding cake, created by Bill years ago. The dessert was such a hit at her reception that guests urged them to put it on the restaurant’s menu. The result? A Noblesville cult classic that brings back memories with every bite.

For those with dietary preferences, bar ellis goes the extra mile. Chamron, a longtime vegan, has ensured that vegans and vegetarians have a seat at the table—literally. Their menu includes plant-based dishes that are just as thoughtfully crafted as their traditional offerings.

Be Social: Late Nights & Local Entertainment

Beyond the food, bar ellis is bringing a fresh nightlife scene to downtown Noblesville with its After Dark series. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, the restaurant shifts into an open-seating, late-night lounge with a special menu, live music, and comedy acts. Whether you’re looking for an upbeat DJ set or an intimate acoustic performance, there’s something for everyone.

Be Part of the Story

What makes bar ellis truly special isn’t just the food or the ambiance—it’s the community behind it. From their tight-knit staff (many of whom are family) to their loyal guests who return time and again, the bar has quickly become more than a restaurant—it’s a home away from home. 

Reservations are available online, but bar ellis always keeps room for walk-in guests. They love welcoming spontaneous visitors and do their best to seat them quickly—because some of the best nights out aren’t planned, and they want to be part of those memories too.

So whether you’re in the mood for a handcrafted cocktail, a vegan tenderloin, or just a cozy place to gather with friends, be sure to stop by bar ellis. Because here, everyone has a seat at the table.