If you are looking for an authentic German dining and drinking experience in Detroit, look no further than Jacoby's German Biergarten. Established in 1904 in downtown Detroit, it happens to be one of the oldest bars in the city, and serves up great German food like sausage soup and Jager Schnitzel. There is also an amazing selection of nearly one hundred different varieties of beer from around the world, with new selections being added often. The wood-dominated interiors, exposed-brick walls and subtle lighting choices create a cozy atmosphere in the bar. The space is available for private events as well.
Somewhere between a laidback local joint and a lively Greektown gem, Firebird Tavern is the place to be for all-American brews and mouthwatering bar bites. Get acquainted with the Detroit craft beer scene with a Lake Brothers Lager or opt for a specialty cocktail like the Firebird Shandy. Pair any order with elevated pub fare like wild game meatballs with bourbon gravy, Moroccan-spiced steak frites, and perfectly messy poutine. You're guaranteed a warm welcome at Firebird Tavern whether you come for a mellow meal or swing by spirited event, which regularly includes festivities like game-day celebrations and DJ-led dance parties. Come check it out!
Cafe D'Mongos remains hidden in the dead middle of downtown Detroit, billing itself as a speakeasy despite its well-known reputation. Owner Larry Mongo is on site at least one day a week, a dedicated raconteur who delights patrons with his (occasionally fictional but always entertaining) anecdotes and tales of the city. Fresh ingredients are lined up in front of guests at the bar, showcasing the artisan touch with which Cafe D'Mongos operates. There is a limited food menu, the highlight of which is a homespun version of Peking duck developed from a family recipe. The decor is just as varied and eclectic as the clientele, making Cafe D'Mongo a unique local stop for visitors.
Located in a restored historic building just minutes from Comerica Park and Ford Field, the Detroit Beer Company is one of the city's top breweries and taprooms. Beer aficionados will love the selection of craft beers available and will enjoy sampling some of the company's own brews, which can be found on tap at any given time. Favorites include the Saison, Double Chocolate Pumpkin Porter, and Detroit Dwarf. The Detroit Beer Company offers seating on two levels, meaning there's plenty of room for larger groups to come, order a beer sampler, then chow down on delicious bites from the extensive menu.
There’s nothing quite like a night at Detroit’s own Cliff Bell’s: amazing cocktails, live jazz, and award-winning cuisine. The jazz and supper club is all vaulted ceilings, leather booths, and burnished Mahogany. It originally opened in the 1930s, and after it shut its doors in 1985, was reopened in 2005 after painstaking renovations. It’s once again part and parcel of Detroit’s remarkable Jazz scene, which predates and influenced the Motown explosion. Grab a Detroit Dirty Martini and settle down for a sultry evening of great music.
The bartenders at Sugar House are true mixologists who turn out sophisticated cocktails. Exposed brick walls and dim lighting give the place a Prohibition-era ambiance, which is topped by a number of hunting trophys adorning the walls. In addition to its extensive cocktail selection, Sugar House also offers light fare such as a cheese plate and charcuterie board, pickled vegetables.
Ghost Bar, located on the third floor of The Whitney, exudes a charming ambiance that somehow manages to be hip and old-fashioned at the same time. Outfitted like the rest of The Whitney, the dimly-lit Ghost Bar features antiques, leather chairs and wood paneling. The cocktail list is excellent, and you can order food here as well. In addition to offering great happy hours, Ghost Bar also features live entertainment. Check the website for additional information and a list of upcoming events. Bar opens at 5p from Monday through Saturday.
Located close to Wayne State University, The Bronx Bar is a favorite place for both students and locals. The atmosphere here is laid back and the service is very friendly. This bar is well-known locally for their bloody marys and Long Island iced teas, as well as their ample beer selection. Traditional bar food is also available - be sure to try the burger and fried okra!
Small's is a very popular bar lodged in the beautiful city of Hamtramck. It is considered as one of the best rock venues by a number of magazines and critics alike. Housed in what was formerly a bank, Small's front room is home to an Art Deco era mahogany bar stocked with an impressive selection of 53 variants of beer and top shelf liquor. You also get one of the best 'Jukeboxes' here which belts out some great tunes. Then there is the back room which has one of the best live rooms in town, where bands have gigs and keep audiences entertained. Besides this, the bar also boasts of a pool table and arcade games arena which adds to the overall fun quotient. You can also expect great acts at this place which is considered to have the best sound system around town. "Small" only in name, this bar promises the best in drinks and entertainment.
The oldest dive bar in Detroit began in 1876 and is still going strong. 2 Way Inn's ambiance is very fun and casual - the food and drinks served are great for the price they charge. There is also a charming jukebox that plays requested numbers. A great way to start your weekend, 2 Way Inn makes for a delightful time.
The headquarters of Belgian culture in Detroit, the Cadieux Café has one of the first feather bowling alleys in the United States. The bowling alleys are concave and players roll huge wooden wheels and try to land closest to a feather. Tucked away in a residential neighborhood on the East Side, the Cadieux Café is also famous for its fabulous mussels, which are served in more than six different ways. The rest of the menu is typical pub grub and Belgian dishes, and the Old World decor and cheery atmosphere provide a good taste of Belgian bonhomie. It is recommended to book bowling lanes in advance, but it's almost as much fun to watch the old-timers bowl as to play yourself.
One-Eyed Betty's is a beer lover's paradise, offering 44 beers on tap and over 100 types of bottled beer. Enjoy a game of pinball with friends in between rounds of refreshing drinks. The food menu is also impressive, featuring items like delicious burgers, salads and full meal plates.