clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile
More Maps

16 of the Best Spots for Chinese Food in Metro Detroit

Detroit’s 19 Best Breakfasts

The Hottest New Restaurants in Detroit, November 2024

More in Detroit See more maps
The interior of Kiesling bar in Detroit, Michigan. GB in Detroit

Detroit’s 22 Best Bars

Standout spots to grab an espresso martini, local beer, or shot around town.

by Serena Maria Daniels Updated
View as Map
by Serena Maria Daniels Updated
GB in Detroit

Detroit’s bar scene has a storied history, dating back to the speakeasy days of the 1920s and 30s, to the many working class dive bars that dot the neighborhoods, to today’s destinations that also bring coffee, tea, and n/a beverages into the mix. Whether celebrating with friends in the area’s many new bars, rooting for the local teams at the sports-centric watering holes, or appreciating the latest in local beer.

Below, find the finest examples of what Detroit’s bar scene has to offer, from old-school jazz clubs to unpretentious wine bars and all-day cafes that serve something for many.

Read More
Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process. If you buy something or book a reservation from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy.

Baker's Keyboard Lounge

Copy Link

Right off Eight Mile, Baker’s is one of the world's oldest continuously operating jazz clubs. The restaurant, known for its signature piano bar and soul food, features regular live events that draw music lovers from around the city. Go for house favorites like fried chicken, collard greens, and the incredible peach cobbler served with great live jazz. Consider calling ahead for a reservation.

20510 Livernois Ave, Detroit, MI
(313) 345-6300
(313) 345-6300
A purple light is cast over a dark stage area at Baker’s Keyboard Lounge. Michelle and Chris Gerard

Also featured in:

The Congregation

Copy Link

The Congregation in the Boston Edison and Virginia Park areas is set in a 1920s-era church, making gathering with friends easy-breezy. Stop by in the morning for a refreshing orange spice espresso tonic while you have a chill co-working session and ease into evening with a seasonal cocktail. Order a charcuterie board and a bottle of Beaujolais and lounge at a picnic table on the grassy yard or gorgeous wood deck. Each Thursday after 5 p.m. during the warmer months, the outdoor area makes way for a DJ, food trucks, and a bar area — creating the ultimate summertime vibes. Note that wifi is limited to 150 minutes.

9321 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206
(313) 307-5518
(313) 307-5518

Also featured in:

Ladder 4 Wine Bar

Copy Link

The Eater Award-winning Ladder 4 operates as a wine bar and a retail wine shop, but the real draw is how food and drink combine for a unique experience. The critically-lauded food menu developed by John Yelinek, who also helms the popular Park Ranger pop-up, features bold dishes like chicken neck sausage (with the head still attached, of course), spicy greens, and seasonal specials like the 86 Burgers. The spot also hosts music events and has three spacious patios and a backyard.

3396 Vinewood St, Detroit, MI 48208
(313) 638-1601
(313) 638-1601

Also featured in:

Two James Distillery

Copy Link

The tasting room at Two James in Corktown gives both industrial and inviting vibes with its round concrete bar in the center, where a quirky, friendly bartender mixes up cocktails and mocktails. The cocktail menu here changes with the seasons and complements the flavor profiles of the distillery’s many spirits. House cocktails have included the Rye Not? made with Rye Dog white whiskey, along with strawberry, basil, and blood orange. Tours 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 and tinned seafood, as well as a bar fully stocked with Two James.

2445 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI
Two customers sit at the circular bar inside Two James. Michelle and Chris Gerard

Also featured in:

Motor City Wine

Copy Link

Motor City Wine defies expectations of what a wine bar should be. This longtime drinking spot features a quality selection of bottles from around the world for sale in its shop as well as by-the-glass and bottled choices behind the bar. The fenced-in patio is a popular destination during the warm summer season, while the indoor space serves as a cozy option for sips and taking in DJ and jazz sets.

1949 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI
(313) 483-7283
(313) 483-7283
The patio at Motor City wine is full of people after dar. The fence with ivy is lit up with tiki torches. Michelle Gerard

Also featured in:

Dragonfly

Copy Link

Situated next door to tasting-menu establishment Freya, Dragonfly is a casual bar that leans in on the low ABV movement with a variety of cocktails, low alcohol beverages, and mocktails. Herbal teas, fruits and veggies, and natural sweeteners are used to flavor cocktails that have included the How Green is Your Garden, made with gin, Bergamot, cucumber, Earl Grey tea, and lemon.

2929 E Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202

Kiesling

Copy Link

Eater Award-winning saloon brings a strong cocktail game to the Milwaukee Junction neighborhood. With past lives as a general store, a saloon, and a cop bar, this beautifully restored spot honors its history by maintaining the interior’s immaculate woodwork, exposed brick, and hand-painted mural uncovered during the spot’s renovation. Guests can keep things simple with the bar’s $5 beer and shot special or get creative with a long list of classic cocktails with a twist.

449 E Milwaukee Ave, Detroit, MI 48202
(313) 638-2169
(313) 638-2169
A brown beverage in a tumbler with a sliver of citrus rind garnish. Gerard + Belevender

Also featured in:

Nemo's Bar

Copy Link

For more than 50 years, this Michigan Avenue tavern has catered to baseball and hockey fans, though the Tigers Stadium has long since moved out of Corktown. The bar is known for serving a classic cheeseburger and stiff, affordable drinks. Remember to bring cash.

1384 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI
(313) 965-3180
(313) 965-3180
Customers sit at the bar inside Nemo’s. Michelle and Chris Gerard

Also featured in:

Stadt Garten

Copy Link

Midtown’s German beer and wine patio features a robust beverage menu of wine and beer from Germany and underrepresented regions of Europe — all ordered from a window facing the spot’s outdoor garden area. Guests can grab a bottle of wine, share a handful of snacks, enjoy a food truck or pop-up on select days, and gather around a small fire pit on cool summer evenings.

3980 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 500-0000
(313) 500-0000
The patio area outside of the brick Stadt Garden building on a sunny day. GB in Detroit

Also featured in:

Castalia at Sfumato

Copy Link

Dive down to the basement level of an old Victorian mansion in Cass Corridor to find this small and cozy bar. By day, the space operates as fragrance brand Sfumato, and by night it converts into a sleek lounge called Castilia that pairs cocktails with perfumes for a multi-sensory drinking experience. The non-alcoholic menu is curated in the same manner as the spirit-forward one, so guests can enjoy one or both options. When making a reservation, guests are able to reserve charcuterie for their party, which is also paired with a scent experience.

3980 2nd Ave Suite E, Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 305-1442
(313) 305-1442

Also featured in:

‎Batch Brewing Company

Copy Link

This Corktown brewery is a destination among beer fans. The beer garden keeps a rotating list of brews on tap, ranging from Kölsch to Doppelbock, to beer slushies and house-made sodas. The kitchen features a regular menu of pretzels, nachos, and a rotating list of offerings from their large smokers. The spacious outdoor patio space is covered and will soon become a great place to watch local music.

1400 Porter St, Detroit, MI
(313) 338-8008
(313) 338-8008

Also featured in:

Kelly's Bar Hamtramck

Copy Link

Kelly’s Bar in Hamtramck began serving shots and beers to wary auto factory workers more than a century ago. Current owners Kiersten Schilinski and Garrett Ragsdale have modernized the space with a new exterior, leveled floors, and a new kitchen. Expect cans of Hamm’s and Modelo, a rotation of food pop-ups, and a rotation of some of your favorite Hamtramck bartenders.

2403 Holbrook Ave, Hamtramck, MI 48212
(313) 888-9101
(313) 888-9101

Also featured in:

Bumbo's

Copy Link

This neighborhood bar in Hamtramck has friendly service and delicious, affordable cocktails and versatile beer list. The drink menu changes frequently, but expect a list of cocktails that range from classic and refreshing, to the strong and interesting. When the winter hits, Bumbo’s is known for their hot toddies, perfect for sipping on the fenced-in, covered patio.

3001 Holbrook St, Hamtramck, MI
313-285-8239
313-285-8239

Also featured in:

The Royce Detroit

Copy Link

The Royce is the Grand Circus Park-adjacent wine bar and bottle shop situated on the first and second levels of the Kales Building. The storefront features custom shelving made from walnut wood and piping, globe light fixtures, and library ladders. A 12-seat bar fills out the center of the first floor. Owner Ping Ho and team has curated a massive wine program featuring some 300-plus bottles available for retail, an extensive menu for pours by the glass or bottle, and a selection of cured meats and cheeses. The spot even offers classes for those who want to expand upon their wine knowledge base.

Kales Building, 76 W Adams Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 481-2160
(313) 481-2160
Customers gather around the bar inside the Royce waiting to order. Michelle and Chris Gerard

Also featured in:

Willow

Copy Link

Downtown Black-owned cocktail bar, Willow pays homage to Southern hospitality. The speakeasy is located in the alley around the corner from SavannahBlue downtown. Restaurateurs Ron Scott, J.D. Simpson, and Roger Yopp debuted the spot in 2022. Guests are greeted at the entrance by a maître d’ who leads them to the luxurious interior. The menu is designed to tell the story of the Black experience through the lens of drinks.

1431 Times Square, Detroit, MI 48226
A photo of the yellow alley door of Willow which is painted with a willow tree. Serena Maria Daniels

Also featured in:

More in Maps

SPKRBOX

Copy Link

This longtime downtown cafe previously known as Urban Bean Coffee underwent a dramatic makeover just over a year ago, including rebranding to SPKRBOX, an homage to the ownership’s ties to the city’s techno scene. In addition to offering its classic coffee drinks, breakfast burritos sourced from Evie’s Tamales, and ample people-watching opportunities from the second-story seating area, SPKRBOX has evolved to include boozy drinks. Customers can select coffee cocktails like a Francois K made with espresso, cognac, rye, sweet vermouth, and bitters or a Nervous Negroni with gin, sweet vermouth, Campari, and a coffee reduction — perfect for afternoon chill sessions or to help catch that late-night second wind. A bonus, the basement has been fashioned into the Orange Room — a futuristic looking underground lounge with soundproofing for crystal clear sound quality. 

200 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 496-1010
(313) 496-1010

Also featured in:

Paramita Sound

Copy Link

This downtown record shop doubles as a wine bar and is the ideal pocket-sized spot to start an evening on the town. Situated in the Siren Hotel, guests can get comfortable at the bar with a selection of wines by the glass, a limited menu of beers and hard ciders, and mixed drinks whilst perusing the spot’s collection of vinyl records available for sale and taking in the sounds of the in-house DJ, broadcasts of the big sports game, or special musical events.

1517 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226

Also featured in:

The Skip

Copy Link

The Skip in the Belt alleyway gives guests energetic downtown vibes, with a cozy, festival feel no matter the time of year. During the warmer months, the indoor-outdoor spot opens its walls so that guests can spread out with frozen cocktails and catch summer breezes in the outdoor seating area. During the winter, the place closes off the outdoor area but keeps things fun with a variety of tiki-style drinks and usually nostalgia-inducing holiday specials.

The Belt, Detroit, MI 48226
An open air bar space with art on the walls, string lights, and thatch decor. Gerard + Belevender

Also featured in:

Detroit City Distillery

Copy Link

This Eastern Market distillery produces a diverse selection of high-quality spirits at its nearby production facility ranging from whiskey to gin and vodka, including its annual limited-edition honey bourbon, made in collaboration with Bees in the D. The tasting room boasts moody lighting, a variety of original and classic cocktails that change with the seasons, as designed by local bartending standout Andre Sykes and team. During the summer DCD expands out onto Riopelle where bartenders sling drinks from an outdoor bar and guests can lounge about and maybe snack on the Indian street food available at Midnight Temple next door.

Detroit, MI
(313) 338-3760
(313) 338-3760
Customers walk through the door of Detroit City Distillery on a warm, sunny day. The exterior is salmon-colored. Michelle and Chris Gerard

Also featured in:

Cøllect Beer Bar

Copy Link

Now situated on the east side of Detroit, Cøllect Beer Bar sits within an arts hub developed by the folks behind the Library Street Collective and features a lineup of nine beers on tap, a selection of wine, ciders, non-alcoholic beverages, and pours of Four Roses bourbon. In addition to offering beer on tap, the bar also offers Gatorade on draft. With a basketball hoop placed in the center of space, visitors can shoot some hoops, while sipping beers, and then have access to much-needed electrolytes.

9301 Kercheval Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48214

Also featured in:

Spot Lite Detroit

Copy Link

This spacious bar, gallery, record shop, and event space has quickly become the place for East Siders and non-East Siders alike. Meeting someone for a morning coffee meeting? The indoor Cairo Coffee kiosk has that covered. For after-work cocktails, the full-scale bar offers up classics like martinis, sangria, mojitos, and beer and wine. Spot Lite also frequently hosts private parties, gallery exhibitions, prime DJ sets, and other special events (especially during Movement).

2905 Beaufait St #4, Detroit, MI 48207

Also featured in:

Cadieux Cafe

Copy Link

This old world Belgian establishment near East English Village is carrying on the Flemish tradition of featherbowling (similar to bocce ball). Reserve a lane for a group and roll some wooden wheels while sipping a beer. The bar serves a selection of European brews plus the standard domestic and craft beers. It’s also known for that quintessential Belgian beer accompaniment — steamed mussels.

4300 Cadieux Rd, Detroit, MI
(313) 882-8560
(313) 882-8560
Customers sit at wooden tables inside Cadieux Cafe. Michelle and Chris Gerard

Also featured in:

Serena Maria Daniels is a Chicana journalist and the city editor for Eater Detroit. A recovering daily newspaper reporter with nearly 20 years experience, she is also the founder and Chingona-in-Chief of Tostada Magazine.

More in Maps

© 2024 Vox Media, Inc. All rights reserved.
Link copied to the clipboard.

Baker's Keyboard Lounge

20510 Livernois Ave, Detroit, MI

Right off Eight Mile, Baker’s is one of the world's oldest continuously operating jazz clubs. The restaurant, known for its signature piano bar and soul food, features regular live events that draw music lovers from around the city. Go for house favorites like fried chicken, collard greens, and the incredible peach cobbler served with great live jazz. Consider calling ahead for a reservation.

20510 Livernois Ave, Detroit, MI
(313) 345-6300
(313) 345-6300
A purple light is cast over a dark stage area at Baker’s Keyboard Lounge. Michelle and Chris Gerard

The Congregation

9321 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206

The Congregation in the Boston Edison and Virginia Park areas is set in a 1920s-era church, making gathering with friends easy-breezy. Stop by in the morning for a refreshing orange spice espresso tonic while you have a chill co-working session and ease into evening with a seasonal cocktail. Order a charcuterie board and a bottle of Beaujolais and lounge at a picnic table on the grassy yard or gorgeous wood deck. Each Thursday after 5 p.m. during the warmer months, the outdoor area makes way for a DJ, food trucks, and a bar area — creating the ultimate summertime vibes. Note that wifi is limited to 150 minutes.

9321 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206
(313) 307-5518
(313) 307-5518

Ladder 4 Wine Bar

3396 Vinewood St, Detroit, MI 48208

The Eater Award-winning Ladder 4 operates as a wine bar and a retail wine shop, but the real draw is how food and drink combine for a unique experience. The critically-lauded food menu developed by John Yelinek, who also helms the popular Park Ranger pop-up, features bold dishes like chicken neck sausage (with the head still attached, of course), spicy greens, and seasonal specials like the 86 Burgers. The spot also hosts music events and has three spacious patios and a backyard.

3396 Vinewood St, Detroit, MI 48208
(313) 638-1601
(313) 638-1601

Two James Distillery

2445 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI

The tasting room at Two James in Corktown gives both industrial and inviting vibes with its round concrete bar in the center, where a quirky, friendly bartender mixes up cocktails and mocktails. The cocktail menu here changes with the seasons and complements the flavor profiles of the distillery’s many spirits. House cocktails have included the Rye Not? made with Rye Dog white whiskey, along with strawberry, basil, and blood orange. Tours 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 and tinned seafood, as well as a bar fully stocked with Two James.

2445 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI
Two customers sit at the circular bar inside Two James. Michelle and Chris Gerard

Motor City Wine

1949 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI

Motor City Wine defies expectations of what a wine bar should be. This longtime drinking spot features a quality selection of bottles from around the world for sale in its shop as well as by-the-glass and bottled choices behind the bar. The fenced-in patio is a popular destination during the warm summer season, while the indoor space serves as a cozy option for sips and taking in DJ and jazz sets.

1949 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI
(313) 483-7283
(313) 483-7283
The patio at Motor City wine is full of people after dar. The fence with ivy is lit up with tiki torches. Michelle Gerard

Dragonfly

2929 E Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202

Situated next door to tasting-menu establishment Freya, Dragonfly is a casual bar that leans in on the low ABV movement with a variety of cocktails, low alcohol beverages, and mocktails. Herbal teas, fruits and veggies, and natural sweeteners are used to flavor cocktails that have included the How Green is Your Garden, made with gin, Bergamot, cucumber, Earl Grey tea, and lemon.

2929 E Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202

Kiesling

449 E Milwaukee Ave, Detroit, MI 48202

Eater Award-winning saloon brings a strong cocktail game to the Milwaukee Junction neighborhood. With past lives as a general store, a saloon, and a cop bar, this beautifully restored spot honors its history by maintaining the interior’s immaculate woodwork, exposed brick, and hand-painted mural uncovered during the spot’s renovation. Guests can keep things simple with the bar’s $5 beer and shot special or get creative with a long list of classic cocktails with a twist.

449 E Milwaukee Ave, Detroit, MI 48202
(313) 638-2169
(313) 638-2169
A brown beverage in a tumbler with a sliver of citrus rind garnish. Gerard + Belevender

Nemo's Bar

1384 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI

For more than 50 years, this Michigan Avenue tavern has catered to baseball and hockey fans, though the Tigers Stadium has long since moved out of Corktown. The bar is known for serving a classic cheeseburger and stiff, affordable drinks. Remember to bring cash.

1384 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI
(313) 965-3180
(313) 965-3180
Customers sit at the bar inside Nemo’s. Michelle and Chris Gerard

Stadt Garten

3980 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

Midtown’s German beer and wine patio features a robust beverage menu of wine and beer from Germany and underrepresented regions of Europe — all ordered from a window facing the spot’s outdoor garden area. Guests can grab a bottle of wine, share a handful of snacks, enjoy a food truck or pop-up on select days, and gather around a small fire pit on cool summer evenings.

3980 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 500-0000
(313) 500-0000
The patio area outside of the brick Stadt Garden building on a sunny day. GB in Detroit

Castalia at Sfumato

3980 2nd Ave Suite E, Detroit, MI 48201

Dive down to the basement level of an old Victorian mansion in Cass Corridor to find this small and cozy bar. By day, the space operates as fragrance brand Sfumato, and by night it converts into a sleek lounge called Castilia that pairs cocktails with perfumes for a multi-sensory drinking experience. The non-alcoholic menu is curated in the same manner as the spirit-forward one, so guests can enjoy one or both options. When making a reservation, guests are able to reserve charcuterie for their party, which is also paired with a scent experience.

3980 2nd Ave Suite E, Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 305-1442
(313) 305-1442

‎Batch Brewing Company

1400 Porter St, Detroit, MI

This Corktown brewery is a destination among beer fans. The beer garden keeps a rotating list of brews on tap, ranging from Kölsch to Doppelbock, to beer slushies and house-made sodas. The kitchen features a regular menu of pretzels, nachos, and a rotating list of offerings from their large smokers. The spacious outdoor patio space is covered and will soon become a great place to watch local music.

1400 Porter St, Detroit, MI
(313) 338-8008
(313) 338-8008

Kelly's Bar Hamtramck

2403 Holbrook Ave, Hamtramck, MI 48212

Kelly’s Bar in Hamtramck began serving shots and beers to wary auto factory workers more than a century ago. Current owners Kiersten Schilinski and Garrett Ragsdale have modernized the space with a new exterior, leveled floors, and a new kitchen. Expect cans of Hamm’s and Modelo, a rotation of food pop-ups, and a rotation of some of your favorite Hamtramck bartenders.

2403 Holbrook Ave, Hamtramck, MI 48212
(313) 888-9101
(313) 888-9101

Bumbo's

3001 Holbrook St, Hamtramck, MI

This neighborhood bar in Hamtramck has friendly service and delicious, affordable cocktails and versatile beer list. The drink menu changes frequently, but expect a list of cocktails that range from classic and refreshing, to the strong and interesting. When the winter hits, Bumbo’s is known for their hot toddies, perfect for sipping on the fenced-in, covered patio.

3001 Holbrook St, Hamtramck, MI
313-285-8239
313-285-8239

The Royce Detroit

Kales Building, 76 W Adams Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

The Royce is the Grand Circus Park-adjacent wine bar and bottle shop situated on the first and second levels of the Kales Building. The storefront features custom shelving made from walnut wood and piping, globe light fixtures, and library ladders. A 12-seat bar fills out the center of the first floor. Owner Ping Ho and team has curated a massive wine program featuring some 300-plus bottles available for retail, an extensive menu for pours by the glass or bottle, and a selection of cured meats and cheeses. The spot even offers classes for those who want to expand upon their wine knowledge base.

Kales Building, 76 W Adams Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 481-2160
(313) 481-2160
Customers gather around the bar inside the Royce waiting to order. Michelle and Chris Gerard

Willow

1431 Times Square, Detroit, MI 48226

Downtown Black-owned cocktail bar, Willow pays homage to Southern hospitality. The speakeasy is located in the alley around the corner from SavannahBlue downtown. Restaurateurs Ron Scott, J.D. Simpson, and Roger Yopp debuted the spot in 2022. Guests are greeted at the entrance by a maître d’ who leads them to the luxurious interior. The menu is designed to tell the story of the Black experience through the lens of drinks.

1431 Times Square, Detroit, MI 48226
A photo of the yellow alley door of Willow which is painted with a willow tree. Serena Maria Daniels

Related Maps

SPKRBOX

200 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

This longtime downtown cafe previously known as Urban Bean Coffee underwent a dramatic makeover just over a year ago, including rebranding to SPKRBOX, an homage to the ownership’s ties to the city’s techno scene. In addition to offering its classic coffee drinks, breakfast burritos sourced from Evie’s Tamales, and ample people-watching opportunities from the second-story seating area, SPKRBOX has evolved to include boozy drinks. Customers can select coffee cocktails like a Francois K made with espresso, cognac, rye, sweet vermouth, and bitters or a Nervous Negroni with gin, sweet vermouth, Campari, and a coffee reduction — perfect for afternoon chill sessions or to help catch that late-night second wind. A bonus, the basement has been fashioned into the Orange Room — a futuristic looking underground lounge with soundproofing for crystal clear sound quality. 

200 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 496-1010
(313) 496-1010

Paramita Sound

1517 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226

This downtown record shop doubles as a wine bar and is the ideal pocket-sized spot to start an evening on the town. Situated in the Siren Hotel, guests can get comfortable at the bar with a selection of wines by the glass, a limited menu of beers and hard ciders, and mixed drinks whilst perusing the spot’s collection of vinyl records available for sale and taking in the sounds of the in-house DJ, broadcasts of the big sports game, or special musical events.

1517 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226

The Skip

The Belt, Detroit, MI 48226

The Skip in the Belt alleyway gives guests energetic downtown vibes, with a cozy, festival feel no matter the time of year. During the warmer months, the indoor-outdoor spot opens its walls so that guests can spread out with frozen cocktails and catch summer breezes in the outdoor seating area. During the winter, the place closes off the outdoor area but keeps things fun with a variety of tiki-style drinks and usually nostalgia-inducing holiday specials.

The Belt, Detroit, MI 48226
An open air bar space with art on the walls, string lights, and thatch decor. Gerard + Belevender

Detroit City Distillery

Detroit, MI

This Eastern Market distillery produces a diverse selection of high-quality spirits at its nearby production facility ranging from whiskey to gin and vodka, including its annual limited-edition honey bourbon, made in collaboration with Bees in the D. The tasting room boasts moody lighting, a variety of original and classic cocktails that change with the seasons, as designed by local bartending standout Andre Sykes and team. During the summer DCD expands out onto Riopelle where bartenders sling drinks from an outdoor bar and guests can lounge about and maybe snack on the Indian street food available at Midnight Temple next door.

Detroit, MI
(313) 338-3760
(313) 338-3760
Customers walk through the door of Detroit City Distillery on a warm, sunny day. The exterior is salmon-colored. Michelle and Chris Gerard

Cøllect Beer Bar

9301 Kercheval Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48214

Now situated on the east side of Detroit, Cøllect Beer Bar sits within an arts hub developed by the folks behind the Library Street Collective and features a lineup of nine beers on tap, a selection of wine, ciders, non-alcoholic beverages, and pours of Four Roses bourbon. In addition to offering beer on tap, the bar also offers Gatorade on draft. With a basketball hoop placed in the center of space, visitors can shoot some hoops, while sipping beers, and then have access to much-needed electrolytes.

9301 Kercheval Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48214

Spot Lite Detroit

2905 Beaufait St #4, Detroit, MI 48207

This spacious bar, gallery, record shop, and event space has quickly become the place for East Siders and non-East Siders alike. Meeting someone for a morning coffee meeting? The indoor Cairo Coffee kiosk has that covered. For after-work cocktails, the full-scale bar offers up classics like martinis, sangria, mojitos, and beer and wine. Spot Lite also frequently hosts private parties, gallery exhibitions, prime DJ sets, and other special events (especially during Movement).

2905 Beaufait St #4, Detroit, MI 48207

Cadieux Cafe

4300 Cadieux Rd, Detroit, MI

This old world Belgian establishment near East English Village is carrying on the Flemish tradition of featherbowling (similar to bocce ball). Reserve a lane for a group and roll some wooden wheels while sipping a beer. The bar serves a selection of European brews plus the standard domestic and craft beers. It’s also known for that quintessential Belgian beer accompaniment — steamed mussels.

4300 Cadieux Rd, Detroit, MI
(313) 882-8560
(313) 882-8560
Customers sit at wooden tables inside Cadieux Cafe. Michelle and Chris Gerard

Related Maps