While technically in Hubbard Richard, Donovan’s gets included in the Corktown map because of its Irish pub vibes. Windowless, no frills, and away from the hustle and bustle of Michigan Avenue, Donovan’s is the perfect retreat for Detroiters looking to relax. It’s tucked into a corner of Vernor Avenue with stellar views of the Ambassador Bridge and Michigan Central Station. Most nights see a mellow crowd of regulars shooting pool, but DJ nights and live bands do pop up on occasion.

Takoi’s trendy space and Northern Thai-influenced food is both a vegan-friendly place that serves incredibly-flavored, family-style cuisine, it’s also an immersive experience. With moody lighting, spaceship vibes in the interior, and an enclosed outdoor patio area, Takoi is sure to transport guests to another galaxy.

The tasting room at Two James in Corktown gives both industrial, yet inviting vibes with its round concrete bar in the center, where a quirky, friendly bartender is sure to make you smile. The cocktail menu here changes with the seasons and complements the flavor profiles of the distillery’s many spirits such as the Twisted Sister, a cocktail uses Two James’ made with sweetened almond syrup, brandied cherry juice, vanilla bean paste, and lemon. Bottles and cocktails to-go are available for sale. Tour are also available by booking ahead. Looking for a bite before drinks? Two James owner David Landrum launched Supergeil, which specializes in Berlin-style döner kebabs and tinned seafood, as well as a bar fully-stocked with Two James.

While upscale cocktail bars and restaurants abound on Michigan Avenue, this Corktown hangout keeps the visitors to the neighborhood supplied with affordable drinks. Wood paneling and a red awning gives way to even more ‘70s paneling in the interior with a mirrored back bar. The drink selection here is relatively simple with shots (including Jello shots) and domestic beers — the perfect recipe for a boilermaker and a good time.

For 100 years now, the Gaelic League Irish American Club has brought together Detroit’s Irish-American community for beers, whiskey, and events celebrating shared cultural heritage — all set in a dimly-lit space accented with a dark wooden bar and decor that has remained largely the same for so long that it’s cycled through popular bar fashions and its retro charm is almost in fashion again. According to its state liquor license, the club is a members-only organization

with two available club levels: the Irish-American Club and the Gaelic League.

Nancy’s has been holding down an otherwise quiet corner of Corktown since 1902, thanks in large part to its Irish hospitality and large selection of Irish whiskies. Even a devastating 2007 fire couldn’t stop the good times.

Shot-and-beer bars are slowly fading away from Michigan Avenue in Corktown, so when the Detroit Optimist Society opened Last Chance Saloon in fall 2022, drinkers were glad to have a low-key stop in what used to be Casey’s Pub. The space retained the mellow vibes and mercifully kept pricing simple too, with $5 specials on can beer and shots.

Beloved indie music/bar UFO Factory changed in ownership in summer 2024, going to Roula David who operates the east side’s Spot Lite. Don’t worry, the same type of music and event programming — and the vibes — have remained. Along with a new name, UFO BAR, the space now has a freshened up menu, thanks to chef Jessica Kindle’s Gladys Nite, which she also operates as a food truck outside of Spot Lite. Visitors can expect Kindle’s take on UFO’s Atomic Dogs, offerings that came during the previous ownership’s tenure, including weenies topped with elote or kimchi, or served loaded with vegan queso and mushroom bacon or banh mi-style toppings — all of which can be served with a beef halal dog or vegan using Field Roast brand. Customers can also look forward to a revived rooftop lounge area, when weather permits.

Talk with any longtime sports fan in the city and chances are they’ll have a heyday story from Nemo’s during the Roar of ’84. Losing Tiger Stadium just up the road didn’t slow Nemo’s down. This Corktown bar has weathered the decades since its 1964 opening thanks to its famous griddle-made burgers and its dedicated customers, whether longtime regulars or new transplants to Corktown.

This Corktown hotel features numerous options to wine and dine. Up top is the I|O Rooftop Lounge, which features retractable walls and glass ceiling, providing a unique view of the Detroit skyline. In addition to cocktails and and a food menu, the lounge regularly hosts live entertainment presented by Eater Award-winning nightlife experts, Black on Both Sides. On the ground level, Hamilton’s — operated by Chickpea Hospitality (which brought us Phoenicia in Birmingham and Leila downtown) — offers all-day service and a new American menu that subtly leans toward the group’s Mediterranean influence. Enjoy a Denver steak, the popular halibut and chips set on a bed of pea mash, or roasted carrots in zhug, pistachio dukkah, and fresh herbs. Drinks include cocktails, mocktails, and a variety of wine.

Looking for a fun group date activity? Detroit Axe has all of the elements to test your skills, feed an appetite with its indoor food trailer, a full bar, and plenty of games — including axe throwing.

Yes, Lager House has been through a lot over the years. Longtime owner Paul “PJ” Ryder called it quits in 2022, leaving some wondering if the famous indie music venue and venerable bar would remain. Under new ownership, it’s still a destination for affordable drinks, vegan fare, and to catch a local show.

This contract brewery located in an industrial building in Corktown provides larger brands with opportunities to brew at larger volumes while also turning out some special small batch beers, hard seltzer, cider, wine, and mead for its own taproom. In 2022, the taproom added a kitchen and a food menu to its offerings, providing beer drinkers with bar snacks, pizzas, and other dining options.