Nathan Finney, the visionary behind Finney Hospitality Group, was a dynamic and driven individual whose passion for hospitality transformed the dining landscape in Indiana. Nathan’s journey began with a simple but profound frustration: He found it difficult to get timely service at bars in Bloomington. This experience ignited a desire to create a place where everyone could enjoy fast and friendly service and feel truly welcomed.
In 2012, Nathan turned this vision into reality by opening The Tap in Bloomington, Indiana. The Tap quickly became more than just a bar; it was a community hub where locals and visitors could gather, enjoy great drinks, and experience exceptional service. Finney adjacently built The Tap Brewery in 2014, allowing the bar to serve its own beer. With its warm atmosphere, extensive craft beer selection, and commitment to quality, The Tap set a new standard for what a bar experience should be.
Nathan’s dedication to excellence and his unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction became the cornerstone of Finney Hospitality Group. He believed that every guest deserved to feel valued and appreciated, a philosophy that resonated throughout all his establishments. His hands-on approach and genuine care for both his staff and patrons created a culture of respect and camaraderie that is still felt today.
Under Nathan’s visionary leadership, Finney Hospitality Group grew and flourished, expanding its reach and influence. Explosive growth began in August 2018, when he introduced Social Cantina in Bloomington, blending traditional Mexican and modern American cuisines with stylish interior design. In February 2019, he launched SmokeWorks in Bloomington, inspired by Memphis barbecue and featuring an extensive bourbon selection.
Finney acquired the Bloomington, IN staple Yogi’s in November 2019, reviving the popular sports bar. In September 2021, he opened a third The Tap location near Purdue University in West Lafayette.
Throughout 2022 & 2023, Social Cantina expanded with new locations in Carmel, Downtown Indianapolis, and Mishawaka, IN. February 2023 saw the debut of Kind Car Wash, an express car wash with various amenities, while The Tap secured a contract to open a fourth location within Indianapolis Airport (IND).
From humble beginnings in Bloomington, the group has since created four dining concepts across 10 locations and a car wash, each embodying Nathan’s core values of hospitality and service. His innovative approach and relentless drive for perfection have left an indelible mark on the industry.
Tragically, in November 2023, Nathan’s journey was cut short, but his legacy lives on through the thriving establishments he created and the countless lives he touched. Today, we honor Nathan Finney by continuing to uphold the high standards and welcoming spirit he established. His vision continues to guide us, inspiring us to create spaces where everyone feels valued and appreciated, just as Nathan envisioned.
At Finney Hospitality Group, we are committed to carrying forward Nathan’s dream, ensuring that every guest experiences the warmth, friendliness, and exceptional service that defined Nathan’s approach to hospitality.